{{org_field_logo}}

{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

---

Moving and Handling

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} promotes safe and dignified moving and handling practices for service users while safeguarding staff from injury. The policy outlines how we assess, plan, and implement safe moving and handling procedures in line with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, and the Health and Social Care Standards.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and service users receiving care from {{org_field_name}}. It covers all aspects of moving and handling, including personal care, mobility assistance, and the use of moving and handling equipment.

3. Related Policies

This policy should be read alongside the following policies:

• Health and Safety Policy
• Risk Assessment Policy
• Personal Plans Policy
• Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• Staff Training and Development Policy.

4. Principles of Safe Moving and Handling

{{org_field_name}} follows these core principles to promote safe and effective moving and handling:

1. Dignity and Respect:
   • Service users are supported in a way that maintains their dignity, privacy, and comfort.
   • Moving and handling activities are conducted with the individual’s consent and involvement.
2. Promoting Independence:
   • Support is provided in a way that encourages the individual’s independence.
   • Where possible, service users are encouraged to participate in their own transfers and mobility.
3. Risk Reduction:
   • Risk assessments are conducted for each service user to identify potential hazards.
   • Controls are implemented to minimise the risk of injury to both staff and service users.
4. Competence and Training:
   • All staff receive comprehensive moving and handling training during induction and annual refresher courses.
   • Staff must demonstrate competence before undertaking moving and handling tasks.

5. Risk Assessment and Personalised Care Planning

Effective risk management is fundamental to safe moving and handling practices at {{org_field_name}}:

1. Initial Assessment:
   • Upon commencing care, a moving and handling risk assessment is conducted for each service user.
   • This assessment considers mobility levels, health conditions, cognitive ability, and environmental factors.
   • Any previous falls, fractures, or injuries are documented.
2. Personalised Moving and Handling Plan:
   • Each service user has a personalised moving and handling plan as part of their personal care plan.
   • The plan includes step-by-step instructions for safe transfers, mobility assistance, and equipment use.
   • Plans are developed in collaboration with the service user, family, and healthcare professionals.
3. Regular Reviews:
   • Risk assessments and moving and handling plans are reviewed every six months or sooner if the service user’s condition changes.
   • Any changes are communicated to all staff involved in the service user’s care.
4. Environmental Risk Assessment:
   • Staff conduct environmental checks in the service user’s home to identify hazards, such as uneven flooring, poor lighting, or cluttered spaces.
   • Recommendations for home adaptations, such as grab rails or stair lifts, are documented and shared with the service user and family.

6. Safe Moving and Handling Techniques

{{org_field_name}} ensures that staff follow safe techniques to protect both themselves and service users during moving and handling tasks:

1. Key Techniques:
   • Staff use correct body posture, including keeping the back straight, bending the knees, and maintaining a stable base.
   • Manual handling is minimised, with mechanical aids used wherever possible.
   • Two-person assistance is provided when a task exceeds the capacity of one staff member.
2. Types of Assistance:
   • Minimal Assistance: Supporting balance or guidance during mobility.
   • Moderate Assistance: Physical support with weight-bearing tasks.
   • Full Assistance: Transfers using mechanical aids for non-weight-bearing service users.
3. Do’s and Don’ts:
   • Do: Communicate with the service user, ensure a safe environment, and use appropriate equipment.
   • Don’t: Twist while lifting, lift above shoulder height, or attempt to lift without assistance when required.
4. Promoting Service User Participation:
   • Staff encourage service users to participate in their own mobility where possible.
   • Techniques such as verbal prompts and handrails are used to support independence.

7. Equipment Management and Usage

{{org_field_name}} ensures that appropriate equipment is available and used correctly to promote safe moving and handling:

1. Types of Equipment:
   • Hoists: Mobile and ceiling hoists for non-weight-bearing transfers.
   • Slide Sheets: Used for repositioning service users in bed.
   • Transfer Boards: Assisting seated transfers between surfaces.
   • Walking Aids: Including frames, rollators, and sticks.
   • Grab Rails: Installed in key areas for support.
2. Equipment Checks:
   • Staff conduct pre-use checks to ensure equipment is clean, safe, and functional.
   • Defective equipment is reported immediately, and alternative arrangements are made.
3. Maintenance and Servicing:
   • Equipment is maintained and serviced regularly by qualified professionals.
   • Records of servicing and repairs are kept by the Care Manager.
4. Training on Equipment Use:
   • Staff receive hands-on training in using all moving and handling equipment.
   • Service users and families are also educated on safe equipment use where applicable.

8. Staff Training and Competence

Competent staff are essential for ensuring safe and effective moving and handling practices:

1. Induction Training:
   • All new staff complete mandatory moving and handling training during induction.
   • This training includes theory, practical skills, and competency assessments.
2. Annual Refresher Training:
   • Staff must attend refresher courses annually to maintain skills and knowledge.
   • Refresher sessions cover manual handling techniques, risk assessments, and equipment use.
3. Competency Assessments:
   • Staff must demonstrate competence before performing moving and handling tasks independently.
   • Competency checks are conducted regularly by supervisors.
4. Continuous Professional Development:
   • Staff are encouraged to attend external courses and workshops to enhance their skills.
   • Training records are maintained in each staff member’s personnel file.

9. Incident Reporting and Investigation

{{org_field_name}} has clear procedures for reporting and investigating moving and handling incidents:

1. Immediate Response:
   • If an incident occurs, staff must ensure the safety of the service user and themselves.
   • First aid is provided if needed, and emergency services are contacted for serious injuries.
2. Incident Reporting:
   • All moving and handling incidents, including near misses, must be reported immediately to the Care Manager.
   • An incident report form is completed, detailing the circumstances, observations, and actions taken.
3. Investigation and Follow-Up:
   • The Care Manager investigates incidents to identify root causes and implement preventative measures.
   • Risk assessments and care plans are updated as needed.
4. RIDDOR Reporting:
   • Incidents resulting in serious injury or hospitalisation are reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) under RIDDOR.

10. Promoting Health and Wellbeing of Staff and Service Users

{{org_field_name}} prioritises the health and wellbeing of both service users and staff during moving and handling activities:

1. Preventing Musculoskeletal Injuries:
   • Staff are trained to recognise early signs of strain or injury and report concerns promptly.
   • Regular breaks are encouraged to prevent fatigue.
2. Supporting Service Users’ Wellbeing:
   • Service users are moved in a way that ensures comfort and minimises distress.
   • Staff engage service users in mobility exercises to promote strength and flexibility.
3. Ergonomic Practices:
   • Workspaces are organised to promote ergonomic practices, such as adjusting bed heights and clearing pathways.

11. Monitoring and Quality Assurance

{{org_field_name}} ensures continuous improvement in moving and handling practices through robust monitoring and quality assurance processes:

1. Audits:
   • Regular audits assess adherence to risk assessments, care plans, and equipment maintenance schedules.
   • Findings are documented, and action plans are implemented to address any gaps.
2. Spot Checks:
   • Unannounced spot checks are conducted to observe staff practices and ensure compliance with procedures.
3. Feedback:
   • Service users and families are encouraged to provide feedback on moving and handling practices.
   • Feedback informs service improvements and staff training.
4. Performance Reviews:
   • Moving and handling practices are discussed during staff supervision and annual appraisals.

12. Communication and Reporting

Clear communication ensures safe and consistent moving and handling practices:

1. Care Plan Handover:
   • Moving and handling plans are communicated to all staff involved in a service user’s care.
   • Handover meetings highlight any changes in mobility or equipment needs.
2. Daily Communication:
   • Staff report any concerns about moving and handling to the Care Manager.
   • Communication books and digital care records are updated after each shift.
3. Family Involvement:
   • Families are informed of any changes in moving and handling plans.
   • Education is provided to families on safe practices when assisting their loved ones.

13. Partnership Working

{{org_field_name}} collaborates with external professionals to ensure safe and effective moving and handling:

1. Healthcare Professionals:
   • Occupational therapists and physiotherapists are involved in risk assessments and care planning.
   • Recommendations from healthcare professionals are incorporated into moving and handling plans.
2. Equipment Providers:
   • {{org_field_name}} works with reputable equipment providers to ensure high-quality, well-maintained equipment.
3. Regulatory Bodies:
   • Regular communication with the Care Inspectorate ensures compliance with best practices and regulations.

14. Infection Prevention During Moving and Handling

To prevent cross-infection during moving and handling tasks, {{org_field_name}} follows strict hygiene protocols:

1. Hand Hygiene:
   • Staff perform hand hygiene before and after moving and handling tasks.
   • Alcohol-based hand sanitiser is available for use when handwashing facilities are unavailable.
2. Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
   • Gloves and aprons are worn when assisting with personal care tasks.
   • PPE is disposed of immediately after use in accordance with waste management procedures.
3. Equipment Cleaning:
   • Moving and handling equipment is cleaned and disinfected between uses.
   • Reusable items, such as slide sheets, are laundered regularly.

15. Emergency Procedures

In the event of an emergency during moving and handling, staff follow these procedures:

1. Fall or Injury:
   • Staff do not attempt to lift a fallen service user without appropriate equipment.
   • Emergency services are called if the service user is injured or unable to stand safely.
2. Equipment Failure:
   • If equipment fails during use, staff must stop the task immediately and seek assistance.
   • Faulty equipment is removed from use and reported for repair.
3. First Aid:
   • Staff provide first aid as needed and record the incident accurately.

16. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, best practices, or organisational needs. Updates will be communicated to all staff, and relevant training will be provided to ensure continued compliance.

---

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}}{{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.