In 2008, a new electronic assessment system was developed to support the visit process (www.jagvisits.org.uk). The JAG Visits website provides a user-friendly platform through which Units can upload their supporting evidence and complete the JAG Online Checklist, a vital component of a JAG Visit. This is supported by a face to-face on-site JAG Visit. The JAG Visit validates the self-certified GRS scores and in addition, provides an opportunity to interview the workforce and training staff and inspect the physical environment and decontamination facilities.

Three months prior to the intended visit date, the JAG Online Checklist, a detailed questionnaire based on the Global Rating Scale (www.grs.nhs.uk), will need to be completed online by the professional in charge of the Unit. This will form the basis of the evidence for re-registration and will have to be formally signed off by both the lead Clinical Director and the Nurse Manager.

A JAG Visit Team will be arranged by the JAG Office made up as follows: a Training Lead, SHA/Clinical Lead, and a Nurse Lead. All JAG Assessors are formally trained and signed off by the JAG to perform JAG Visits.

The Visit Team will compile a JAG Visit Report that will indicate whether the Unit can be recognised as a JAG Certified Unit or what actions need to be undertaken for such status to be granted. Follow up (if required) will be by way of revisit and/or submission of further documentary evidence.

Each Unit will be responsible for the costs of such visits.Feedback (acute sites) indicates the cost of a visit is more than offset by the benefits of going through the process:

• Improved quality of care for patients
• New investment for units
• Better recognition within the organisation of what the service provides
• Improved staff morale

The JAG Office will manage a rolling process of certification and re-certification.