Table 2.

Strategic approach – Establishment level: Indicators of good practice.

Local engagement at senior level	The AWB and the person responsible for ensuring compliance with the provisions of the Directive are visible and demonstrate a commitment to delivering a Culture of Care at the establishment, for example by visiting the facility and staff, hosting local events, having members of the AWB listed on an internal website or on posters. Other named people (e.g. designated veterinarian, animal welfare officer) are supported in their endeavours to promote a Culture of Care.
Establishment vision	The establishment has developed its own vision of Culture of Care involving staff and the AWB. This is articulated to staff and local leadership (for example, through a ‘Culture of Care’ pledge (Appendix 4) or AWB statement). The vision is actively promoted, for example through the AWB, facility and research managers. Including the vision in induction for new staff and visitors is a useful structural element. The vision can be used as a tool to recognize and reward good practice and to support openness. The vision, as it relates to working practices, is regularly evaluated to check it remains relevant and put into practice.
AWB scope	For example, the AWB considers all animal use in scientific procedures including animal use outside that governed by the legislation, for example use of animals in non-regulated procedures, use of invertebrates.
AWB resource	The AWB have adequate resource to deliver all the functions of an AWB and to support and promote Culture of Care. For example, this might include a budget to support continuing education of AWB members including lay or external members to be able to invite external speakers or fund CPD sessions relevant to the functions of the AWB and to sponsor events (e.g. 3Rs) and provide recognition awards. It might also include dedicated literature search resources to help applicants and the AWB address replacement options. The person responsible for ensuring compliance with the provisions of the Directive acts as a sponsor to ensure the resource.
AWB membership	A diverse membership is encouraged to enable different ethical perspectives to be considered. It is strongly recommended that animal care and technical staff should be members of the AWB as this enables their voices to be heard. This is an important factor in a good Culture of Care where animal care and technical staff often carry the burden of care. Lay and independent members offer diverse views and enabling their views to be aired can provide constructive challenge including questioning accepted practice or the establishments historical status quo. An independent chair can provide additional perspective and neutrality.
AWB annual goals	The AWB sets goals. This demonstrates a proactive approach to continuous improvement and improving standards. The goals might, for example, include sponsoring a sub-group to consider a Culture of Care alongside other goals such as 3Rs, compliance reporting and protocol review. The goals are reviewed by the AWB throughout the year.
Staff involvement	The local culture empowers staff to have a ‘bottom-up’ approach to care. The AWB and local leadership promote collaboration and recognition across teams especially between animal technicians and scientists.
Open AWB	AWB meetings are open to all staff, not just those working with animals. Dates of meetings and agendas are made available to staff at the establishment. Minutes are shared and may be published on internal web areas. Allowing a wide number of staff to attend supports a forum for discussing ethical, scientific and welfare topics.
AWB sponsored activities	Talks on animal research and facility tours are available and offered openly for any staff within the company, students and visitors from organizations external to the company. Open days may be organized for family and friends and other members of the public. Development of novel methods for accessing the facilities, for example virtual tours.
AWB communication processes	The establishment has developed communication methods that help support a Culture of Care, for example a local newsletter or internal website. There are regular communications from the AWB including meeting updates, newsletters, legislative information.
Outreach	Presentations on animal research may be given at local schools and colleges or other groups on request through company outreach groups.

AWB: animal welfare board; CPD: continuous professional development.