DCW56-HIV Awareness and Support Policy
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{{org_field_name}}
Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
HIV Awareness and Support Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} provides a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for service users and staff affected by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). This policy outlines best practices in awareness, infection control, confidentiality, and person-centred care, ensuring compliance with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) regulations and public health guidelines.
We are committed to:
- Reducing stigma and discrimination against individuals living with HIV.
- Ensuring service users receive high-quality care that meets their physical, emotional, and psychological needs.
- Providing staff with accurate information and training to support individuals effectively.
- Maintaining strict confidentiality and ensuring legal protections are upheld.
- Complying with infection control measures to prevent the spread of HIV and other bloodborne infections.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
- Service users living with HIV who receive care from {{org_field_name}}.
- Families, carers, and advocates supporting individuals with HIV.
- All employees, including care workers, managers, and administrative staff.
- The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual, responsible for ensuring compliance.
- Healthcare professionals involved in HIV care and treatment plans.
3. Legal and Regulatory Framework
This policy aligns with:
- The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, ensuring safe, high-quality care.
- The Equality Act 2010, protecting individuals with HIV from discrimination.
- The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014, promoting well-being and rights-based care.
- The Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984, outlining public health protections.
- The Human Rights Act 1998, ensuring the right to dignity and respect.
- The Data Protection Act 2018 (GDPR), protecting personal health information.
- NICE Guidelines on HIV Testing and Care, ensuring best practices in care delivery.
4. Understanding HIV: Awareness and Education
HIV is a long-term manageable condition, and individuals living with HIV can lead healthy lives with appropriate antiretroviral treatment (ART). HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, and it should never be a barrier to receiving care.
4.1 Staff Training and Awareness
All staff receive training to:
- Understand HIV transmission, prevention, and treatment.
- Challenge myths and stigma associated with HIV.
- Ensure service users are treated with dignity and respect.
- Recognise the psychological and emotional impact of living with HIV.
How we manage this efficiently:
- HIV awareness training is provided during staff induction and updated annually.
- Workshops and e-learning modules ensure up-to-date knowledge.
- A designated HIV support lead is available for staff queries and concerns.
4.2 Reducing Stigma and Promoting Inclusivity
Individuals with HIV often face social stigma and discrimination. {{org_field_name}} is committed to:
- Ensuring a non-judgmental environment where service users feel safe.
- Providing staff with anti-discrimination training to prevent bias in care delivery.
- Using positive, non-stigmatising language when discussing HIV.
- Encouraging service users to disclose their status only if they feel comfortable.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Zero-tolerance policy on discrimination – any breaches result in disciplinary action.
- Staff are encouraged to use person-first language, e.g., “a person living with HIV” rather than “an HIV-positive person”.
5. Confidentiality and Data Protection
5.1 Protecting Personal Health Information
HIV status is confidential medical information and must be handled with strict privacy in line with GDPR and Data Protection laws.
- No staff member is permitted to disclose a service user’s HIV status without their consent.
- Records must be securely stored, and access is limited to those with a legitimate care-related need.
- Service users have the right to decide whether or not to disclose their HIV status.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Confidentiality agreements are in place for all staff.
- A secure electronic records system protects sensitive health data.
5.2 When Disclosure is Necessary
HIV disclosure is only permitted when:
- Required by law (e.g., safeguarding concerns, court orders).
- With explicit consent from the service user.
- When sharing information with healthcare providers directly involved in care.
6. Infection Prevention and Control
HIV is only transmitted through specific body fluids, and the risk of transmission in a care setting is extremely low. Universal Precautions (Standard Infection Control) should always be followed to protect staff and service users from all bloodborne infections.
6.1 Standard Infection Control Measures
All staff must:
- Wear gloves when handling body fluids or performing personal care tasks.
- Dispose of sharps safely in designated containers.
- Follow correct hand hygiene procedures at all times.
- Use single-use PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) where necessary.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Regular infection control audits ensure compliance.
- Mandatory infection control training is provided to all staff.
6.2 Safe Handling of Medication and First Aid
- Service users on ART (antiretroviral therapy) must receive their medication as prescribed.
- Care workers must follow medication management protocols.
- First aid procedures must be followed correctly, including using gloves and cleaning wounds carefully.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Medication administration records (MARs) are maintained for all service users on HIV treatment.
- Emergency protocols are in place for needle-stick injuries.
7. Emotional and Psychological Support
Living with HIV can impact an individual’s mental health and emotional well-being. {{org_field_name}} ensures that service users have access to:
- Counselling and peer support groups.
- Mental health assessments and interventions if needed.
- Support in managing relationships, disclosure, and stigma.
How we manage this efficiently:
- A mental health lead provides emotional support referrals.
- Regular well-being checks ensure service users feel supported.
8. Supporting Service Users with HIV in Daily Care
Care workers should:
- Ensure individuals have access to nutritious meals, as diet plays a key role in managing HIV.
- Encourage medication adherence, ensuring ART is taken correctly.
- Support service users with attending medical appointments.
- Be alert to signs of opportunistic infections, referring concerns to healthcare providers.
How we manage this efficiently:
- Care plans include specific health management strategies for individuals with HIV.
- A named key worker is assigned to support each service user.
9. Staff Support and Occupational Health
9.1 Supporting Staff Who Have HIV
- HIV-positive staff members are protected under the Equality Act 2010.
- Reasonable adjustments are made to support their health needs.
9.2 Managing Workplace Exposure Risks
- In the unlikely event of a needle-stick injury, staff should seek immediate medical advice.
- PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is available for staff if there has been potential exposure.
How we manage this efficiently:
- A confidential occupational health service is available for staff support.
10. Related Policies
This policy aligns with:
- Infection Prevention and Control Policy (DCW22).
- Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy (DCW30).
- Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy (DCW34).
- Safeguarding Adults Policy (DCW13).
11. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to legislative changes, business needs, or CIW updates. The Registered Manager and Responsible Individual are responsible for ensuring 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.