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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Reducing Carbon Footprint in Domiciliary Care Office Policy

1. Purpose

This policy sets out {{org_field_name}}’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint within its domiciliary care office operations. By implementing environmentally responsible practices, this policy ensures compliance with CQC Regulation 15: Premises and Equipment and aligns with national climate goals. It aims to reduce waste, energy consumption, and carbon emissions while maintaining high-quality domiciliary care services. By incorporating sustainable strategies, the organisation will create a greener work environment, support the fight against climate change, and encourage staff participation in eco-friendly initiatives.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All staff working in or associated with the domiciliary care office, including permanent, temporary, and agency staff.
• Office-based administration, management, and support staff who handle day-to-day operations.
• Care staff who use office facilities during shifts or require resources from the office.
• Suppliers and contractors who provide office-related services, including maintenance, stationery, and energy suppliers.
• Visitors to the office who are encouraged to comply with the organisation’s sustainability objectives.

3. Related Policies

This policy should be read alongside:

• CH16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy, ensuring environmental health is integrated into workplace safety.
• CH18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy, identifying and mitigating sustainability risks.
• CH25 – Notification of Other Incidents Policy, ensuring sustainability-related incidents such as waste mismanagement are reported.
• CH42 – Communication and Engagement with Service Users and Families Policy, promoting sustainability within the broader care community.
• CH17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy, ensuring environmental responsibility aligns with hygiene and infection control measures.

4. Key Areas for Carbon Footprint Reduction

4.1. Energy Efficiency and Office Practices

Energy efficiency is a critical factor in reducing the office’s carbon footprint. To ensure sustainability, the following measures will be implemented:

• LED lighting will replace all standard office lighting to reduce energy consumption.
• Staff must switch off computers, printers, and other electrical devices when not in use to minimise unnecessary energy waste.
• Smart meters and timers will be installed to regulate electricity usage and ensure optimal energy consumption.
• Office temperature settings will be maintained at energy-efficient levels, with air conditioning and heating used only when necessary.
• Encouraging natural lighting by keeping blinds open during daylight hours to reduce reliance on artificial lighting.

4.2. Sustainable Paper and Printing Policies

Paper consumption is a significant contributor to environmental degradation. To reduce paper waste, the organisation will:

• Transition to a paperless office environment by encouraging the use of digital documents and cloud storage.
• Set office printers to double-sided printing as default to conserve paper resources.
• Encourage staff to only print essential documents and proofread before printing to avoid unnecessary waste.
• Use recycled paper products for all office needs, including notepads and official documents.
• Implement secure digital signatures to reduce the need for physical paperwork.
• Ensure confidential waste is shredded and recycled appropriately, following GDPR compliance.

4.3. Green Procurement and Office Supplies

The organisation will prioritise sustainable procurement by:

• Partnering with eco-friendly suppliers who use sustainable production practices.
• Purchasing biodegradable and recyclable office supplies, including pens, paper, and cleaning products.
• Reducing single-use plastics such as disposable cutlery, cups, and packaging in office spaces.
• Ensuring suppliers meet ethical and environmental responsibility criteria.
• Regularly reviewing procurement policies to find greener alternatives for office supplies.

4.4. Travel and Transport Emissions Reduction

Transportation is a major contributor to carbon emissions. {{org_field_name}} aims to reduce its environmental impact through:

• Encouraging staff to use public transport, carpooling, cycling, or walking where possible to commute to work.
• Promoting remote work where feasible to reduce unnecessary travel to the office.
• Replacing non-essential travel with virtual meetings to decrease fuel consumption.
• Exploring the introduction of electric or hybrid company vehicles for business use.
• Installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations where feasible to support sustainable transportation.

4.5. Waste Management and Recycling

Proper waste management plays a vital role in reducing environmental impact. The organisation will:

• Provide clearly labeled recycling bins for paper, plastics, and general waste.
• Encourage composting of biodegradable waste where possible.
• Partner with certified waste management companies to ensure responsible disposal.
• Reduce unnecessary packaging from suppliers by ordering bulk products where appropriate.
• Reuse or donate old office furniture and electronic equipment instead of disposing of them.

4.6. Water Conservation Measures

Water is a precious resource, and {{org_field_name}} is committed to minimising water wastage by:

• Installing water-efficient appliances and fixtures in kitchen and bathroom areas.
• Encouraging staff to reduce unnecessary water use, such as turning off taps while washing hands.
• Conducting regular checks for leaks to prevent water loss and promptly fixing any issues.
• Educating staff on the importance of water conservation and responsible usage.

4.7. Training and Staff Awareness

Sustainability awareness is key to achieving a greener workplace. The organisation will:

• Provide mandatory sustainability training for all employees to promote eco-friendly behaviours.
• Issue monthly newsletters with tips on reducing environmental impact and updates on office sustainability initiatives.
• Recognise and reward staff who contribute positively to reducing the office’s carbon footprint through green initiatives and challenges.
• Appoint a Green Champion to oversee sustainability efforts and encourage staff participation.

5. Implementation and Monitoring

5.1. Responsibilities of the Registered Manager

The Registered Manager is responsible for:

• Ensuring full implementation of this policy across all office functions.
• Conducting annual environmental audits to assess sustainability progress.
• Setting carbon reduction targets and reviewing them regularly.
• Overseeing compliance with recycling and waste management practices.

5.2. Responsibilities of Office Staff

Office staff play a critical role in achieving sustainability goals and must:

• Follow all sustainable office practices outlined in this policy.
• Report energy wastage, leaks, and inefficiencies to the appropriate department.
• Engage in office-wide recycling and waste reduction efforts.
• Support digital transformation efforts by adopting paperless work practices.

5.3. Monitoring and Compliance Checks

To ensure compliance and continued progress, {{org_field_name}} will:

• Conduct quarterly sustainability reports to assess policy effectiveness.
• Review energy efficiency, waste management, and procurement records.
• Collect staff feedback to refine and improve green initiatives.

6. Compliance with CQC Regulations

This policy aligns with:

• Regulation 15: Premises and Equipment – Ensuring office equipment and premises operate sustainably.
• Regulation 17: Good Governance – Implementing responsible operational policies.
• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Promoting a safe and sustainable working environment.

CQC inspectors will evaluate compliance by:

• Reviewing sustainability reports and audits.
• Checking energy efficiency and waste management records.
• Assessing staff training and engagement in sustainability initiatives.

7. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation changes or business needs evolve. Updates will be communicated to all staff.

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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}}
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