CH177-Communal Toilets and Bathrooms Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Communal Toilets and Bathrooms Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all communal toilets and bathrooms in settings managed by {{org_field_name}} are clean, safe, accessible, well-maintained, and used in a way that promotes the dignity, privacy, and wellbeing of the people we support. Communal facilities require strict hygiene and infection prevention standards while also supporting the rights of individuals to feel safe and respected. This policy supports compliance with Regulation 10 (Dignity and Respect), Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment), Regulation 15 (Premises and Equipment), and Regulation 17 (Good Governance) of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, contractors, volunteers, and visitors in any setting operated by {{org_field_name}} that includes shared toilet or bathroom facilities. It also applies to all people we support who use communal bathrooms as part of their care. The policy covers cleaning, maintenance, safe access, use of equipment, and monitoring processes for communal bathrooms and toilets in supported living or shared home environments where facilities are shared between individuals.

3. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

CH11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
CH13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
CH15 – Premises and Equipment Policy
CH17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
CH18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
CH20 – Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures
CH40 – Assisting with Personal Care Policy

4. Privacy and Dignity

{{org_field_name}} ensures that all communal toilets and bathrooms are designed and maintained in a way that upholds the privacy and dignity of each individual. Staff must always knock and wait for permission before entering a bathroom that may be in use. Where assistance is required, staff must ensure privacy by closing doors and using discretion when discussing or carrying out personal care. Each individual’s preferences for support and privacy are recorded in their care plan. Shared spaces are never used for storage or non-care related activity to maintain respect for personal space and hygiene.

5. Infection Prevention and Control

All communal toilets and bathrooms are cleaned and disinfected multiple times per day according to an agreed cleaning schedule and after any visible contamination or known infection risk. Cleaning records are maintained and audited weekly. PPE such as gloves and aprons are worn during cleaning and care provision. Handwashing facilities with soap, disposable towels, and pedal-operated bins are available in every shared facility. Where individuals require support with personal care, staff must follow aseptic or hygienic non-touch techniques in line with CH17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy. All cleaning products used are compliant with COSHH regulations and are stored safely.

6. Accessibility and Equipment

Bathrooms and toilets are equipped to meet the needs of the people we support. This may include raised toilet seats, grab rails, shower chairs, and emergency call bells. Regular assessments are carried out to ensure that facilities remain suitable and accessible to those with mobility issues or sensory impairments. Where people share facilities, assessments are undertaken to ensure compatibility and minimise the risk of conflict or discomfort. Staff are trained in safe moving and handling techniques when assisting individuals and only equipment in good condition and properly sanitised is used. Any damaged or faulty equipment is taken out of use immediately and reported.

7. Maintenance and Safety

All communal bathroom and toilet facilities are subject to regular maintenance checks to ensure functionality and safety. This includes checking for water leaks, functioning lights, ventilation, flooring safety, grab rails, alarm systems, and water temperature controls. Hot water systems are checked weekly to ensure safe temperature limits are maintained to prevent scalding. Any repairs are reported immediately to the premises lead and addressed as a priority. In the event of equipment failure or blocked facilities, alternative arrangements are made without delay to ensure continuity of access to hygienic and dignified toilet and bathing provision.

8. Safeguarding and Risk Management

Staff must remain vigilant to signs of neglect, abuse, or distress during personal care or when communal bathrooms are being used. Any concerns about inappropriate behaviour, lack of dignity, or potential abuse must be reported immediately to the Registered Manager and safeguarding lead. People who are at risk of falls or self-neglect are risk assessed and supported with additional supervision or bathroom adaptations as needed. Where behavioural challenges exist, proactive support plans and de-escalation strategies are implemented to ensure the safety and dignity of everyone sharing the facilities.

9. Managing Gender and Cultural Sensitivities

{{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring communal toilet and bathroom use respects individual identities, preferences, and cultural practices. Where requested, we allocate same-gender staff for personal care and ensure that bathing or toilet routines are adapted to meet cultural or religious expectations. Where communal facilities may raise concerns about gender identity, segregation, or exposure to others, we assess the situation with the person involved and adjust care plans accordingly. Where required, alternative private facilities or dedicated time slots are arranged to ensure comfort and inclusivity.

10. Support with Personal Care

Staff assisting individuals in communal bathrooms must follow CH40 – Assisting with Personal Care Policy. This includes explaining each step, seeking consent, using privacy covers, and maintaining eye-level communication. The individual must be offered choices regarding when and how they receive care. Equipment such as hoists, shower chairs, and commodes must be checked prior to use. Staff must monitor water temperature and room ventilation to ensure safety and comfort. Following care, all surfaces and equipment must be cleaned or disinfected appropriately before use by another individual.

11. Documentation and Communication

Any issues, concerns, repairs, accidents, or cleaning deviations related to communal bathrooms must be recorded in the site maintenance log or electronic care records system. All individuals who receive assistance in the bathroom will have care notes completed after each visit, recording any concerns, observations, or actions taken. Communication logs between shifts ensure consistent standards are maintained, and staff are updated about individuals’ preferences or incidents. Weekly management checks ensure compliance with all documentation requirements.

12. Monitoring and Quality Assurance

The Registered Manager is responsible for overseeing compliance with this policy. Monthly audits of cleaning records, maintenance reports, incident logs, and care plans are conducted. The findings are discussed in management and staff meetings and contribute to our continuous quality improvement plan. Spot checks are carried out unannounced to ensure facilities are safe, clean, and respectful of the people we support. Feedback from individuals and their families is regularly sought to evaluate their experience and satisfaction with the use of communal bathroom and toilet facilities.

13. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier in response to changes in CQC guidance, legislation, complaints, or after any incident involving communal facilities. Reviews will be led by the Registered Manager in consultation with health and safety leads and feedback from staff and the people we support. Any changes will be communicated promptly and training updated where necessary.

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.