Framework

The IGS governance framework.

The Inclusion Governance Standard™ (IGS) is structured across six governance domains (IGS100–IGS600), assessed through evidence thresholds and a five-level maturity model designed for board oversight.

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How the framework works

IGS assesses whether inclusion is governed as infrastructure: owned, integrated, evidenced and reportable. The domains below map directly to governance controls, leadership accountability, and measurable impact.

Designed for executive and board assurance
Evidence-led maturity scoring
Aligned to organisational risk and governance reporting
Cross-sector use: public sector, NHS, corporate, education and VCSE

Governance, not activity. Evidence, not statements. Structure, not symbolism. Accountability, not aspiration.

IGS Seal

This seal and the certification marks are licence-based and must not be altered.

Domains

IGS100–IGS600 governance domains

Each domain is assessed against maturity criteria and evidence thresholds. Results are board-reportable and can be used to drive structured improvement.

IGS100

Governance Leadership

Board oversight, executive accountability, governance cadence and risk integration.

IGS200

Policy Architecture

Policy controls, procurement standards, structural governance controls and review cycles.

IGS300

Workforce Governance

Inclusive recruitment, capability, leadership competence and workforce monitoring.

IGS400

Systems Accessibility

Digital, physical and communications accessibility integrated into systems and procurement.

IGS500

Service Inclusion

Inclusive service design, stakeholder inclusion, co-production and feedback loops.

IGS600

Measurement & Impact

KPIs, dashboards, transparency, improvement tracking and benchmarking leadership.

Maturity model

Assessment results map to five levels of governance maturity:

Level 1 – Reactive
Level 2 – Structured
Level 3 – Embedded
Level 4 – Integrated
Level 5 – Sector Benchmark Leadership

How scoring works

Each domain is scored using four governance evidence dimensions:

Formalisation – documented controls
Ownership – leadership accountability
Integration – embedded in operations
Evidence – demonstrable outcomes

Evidence may include documentary controls, operational practice, leadership accountability and outcome indicators.

Recognition

Certification pathway

Organisations may be recognised at different levels based on maturity evidence thresholds.

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