Section 80. Grievance procedure

A. The superintendent or designee shall ensure the facility's compliance with the department's grievance procedure. The grievance procedure shall provide for the following:

1. Resident participation in the grievance process, with assistance from staff upon request;

2. Investigation of the grievance by an impartial and objective person who is not the subject of the grievance;

3. Documented, timely responses to all grievances with the supporting reasons for the decision;

4. At least one level of appeal;

5. Administrative review of grievances;

6. Protection of residents from retaliation or the threat of retaliation for filing a grievance; and

7. Immediate review of emergency grievances with resolution as soon as practicable but no later than eight hours after the initial review.

B. Residents shall be oriented to the grievance procedure in an age or developmentally appropriate manner.

C. The grievance procedure shall be (i) written in clear and simple language, (ii) posted in an area accessible to residents, and (iii) posted in an area easily accessible to parents and legal guardians.

D. Staff shall assist and work cooperatively with other employees in facilitating the grievance process.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 29, Issue 25, eff. January 1, 2014.

Statutory Authority

§§ 16.1-309.9, 66-10, and 66-25.1 of the Code of Virginia.