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DC121-Supporting Service Users with Pets: Risk Assessment and Safety Policy

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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Supporting Service Users with Pets: Risk Assessment and Safety Policy

1. Introduction

At {{org_field_name}}, we recognise the positive impact that pets can have on the well-being, emotional health, and companionship of service users. Pets can reduce loneliness, provide emotional support, and encourage physical activity. However, it is equally important to ensure that the presence of pets does not compromise the safety, health, and well-being of service users, staff, and visitors.

This policy outlines the framework for assessing and managing risks associated with service users who own pets. It ensures that care provision remains safe, respectful, and in line with the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014.

2. Purpose and Scope

The purpose of this policy is to:

This policy applies to all staff, including carers, administrative personnel, volunteers, and contractors, as well as service users and their families. It covers all domiciliary care settings where service users reside with pets, including private homes and supported living arrangements.

3. Principles of the Policy

Our approach to supporting service users with pets is guided by the following principles:

  1. Respect for Service User Choice: We respect the rights of service users to live with their pets, recognising that pets are often considered part of the family.
  2. Safety for All: The safety and well-being of service users, staff, and visitors take precedence. Risk assessments will be conducted to identify and mitigate any potential hazards.
  3. Promoting Well-being: We acknowledge the therapeutic benefits of pet ownership and seek to support service users in caring for their pets safely.
  4. Inclusivity and Fairness: No service user will be discriminated against based on pet ownership. Reasonable adjustments will be made to ensure equitable access to care.
  5. Transparency and Accountability: All risks and concerns will be communicated openly, with documented assessments and clear action plans.

4. Risk Assessment Process

A thorough risk assessment will be conducted for every service user who owns a pet. This assessment will be completed during the initial care planning process and reviewed regularly. The following steps outline the risk assessment process:

4.1 Initial Assessment

4.2 Risk Identification

Key risks associated with pets include:

4.3 Risk Mitigation

To address identified risks, the following mitigation strategies will be implemented:

4.4 Documentation and Review

5. Responsibilities

Maintaining a safe environment for service users, staff, and pets requires collaboration and clearly defined responsibilities:

5.1 Registered Manager:

5.2 Care Staff:

5.3 Service Users and Families:

6. Managing Pet-Related Incidents

Despite thorough risk assessments, pet-related incidents may occasionally occur. Our approach to managing such incidents includes:

6.1 Immediate Response

6.2 Incident Reporting

6.3 Follow-Up Action

7. Infection Control and Hygiene Standards

To prevent the spread of infection, the following hygiene standards will be upheld:

If a service user is unable to maintain hygiene standards due to physical limitations, staff will discuss appropriate support options while maintaining professional boundaries.

8. Training and Awareness

All staff will receive training on supporting service users with pets, including:

Training will be provided during staff induction and refreshed annually. Additional training will be offered if new risks or challenges emerge.

9. Communication and Collaboration

Effective communication between service users, staff, and management is essential for managing pet-related risks. Our approach includes:

10. Managing Refusals and Challenges

If a service user refuses to engage in pet-related risk assessments or adhere to safety recommendations, the following steps will be taken:

  1. Open Dialogue: Staff will discuss the reasons for the refusal, providing clear explanations about potential risks and the importance of safety.
  2. Documented Agreement: If the service user continues to refuse, a documented agreement will be created, outlining the concerns and the service user’s decision.
  3. Escalation: If the refusal poses a significant risk to staff or other service users, the Registered Manager will escalate the issue for further review, including consultation with safeguarding authorities if necessary.

{{org_field_name}} will always strive to find a balanced solution that respects the service user’s rights while ensuring safety.

11. Monitoring and Continuous Improvement

To maintain high standards of safety and care, we will implement ongoing monitoring and continuous improvement initiatives:

Lessons learned from incidents and audits will inform future training and policy updates, ensuring continuous improvement in our approach to pet-related care.

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.

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