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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Locking Service User’s Doors Policy

1. Purpose This policy outlines {{org_field_name}}’s approach to the safe and appropriate locking of service users’ doors, ensuring compliance with CQC regulations, the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, and Regulation 10 – Dignity and Respect. The policy ensures that service users’ safety, privacy, dignity, and freedom are upheld while maintaining effective risk management and security.

2. Scope This policy applies to all employees at {{org_field_name}}, including care workers, nurses, support staff, and management. It covers the circumstances under which service users’ doors may be locked, the rights of service users, security protocols, emergency access, and staff responsibilities.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

• Regulation 10 – Dignity and Respect: Service users must be treated with dignity and respect, including the right to privacy.
• Regulation 12 – Safe Care and Treatment: Ensures that any locking of doors does not result in harm, neglect, or undue restriction of movement.
• Mental Capacity Act 2005: Supports decision-making for individuals who may lack capacity regarding the locking of their doors.
• Equality Act 2010: Ensures no discrimination in the application of this policy.
• Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS): Ensures that restrictions, including locked doors, do not unlawfully deprive individuals of their liberty.

4. Principles of Locking Service User’s Doors

• Respect for Privacy and Independence: Service users have the right to lock their doors if they choose, provided it does not compromise safety.
• Safety and Risk Management: Door locking must be balanced with ensuring the well-being of service users.
• Individual Choice and Consent: Service users must be fully informed and involved in decisions regarding door locking.
• Emergency Access: Staff must always have a means to access rooms in emergencies.
• Compliance with Legal Safeguards: Any restriction must be proportionate, justified, and in line with regulatory requirements.

5. When and How Service User Doors May Be Locked

• Service User Choice:
  • Service users who can make decisions independently have the right to lock their doors at any time.
  • They must be provided with keys or alternative secure locking mechanisms.
• Risk-Based Locking:
  • If a risk assessment determines that door locking is necessary for the safety of the individual (e.g., risk of self-harm, wandering), consent must be obtained where possible.
  • In cases where a service user lacks capacity, decisions must follow Best Interest procedures under the Mental Capacity Act.
• Staff Access in Emergencies:
  • Staff must have a master key or emergency override mechanism to access rooms when required.
  • Emergency access must be documented and reviewed.
• Security Measures:
  • Door locking procedures must not prevent service users from seeking assistance.
  • Staff must conduct regular checks to ensure security is maintained while respecting service user autonomy.

6. Assessing Capacity and Consent

• For Service Users with Capacity:
  • They have the right to decide whether they want their doors locked or unlocked.
  • Staff must document their preference in their care plan.
• For Service Users Lacking Capacity:
  • A formal Mental Capacity Assessment must be conducted.
  • A Best Interest Decision must be made, involving family members, advocates, or legal representatives if necessary.
  • If locking is deemed necessary and could constitute a deprivation of liberty, a DoLS application must be made.

7. Handling Conflicts and Concerns

• If a service user refuses to have their door locked but poses a risk:
  • Discuss concerns with the individual and their family (if appropriate).
  • Review and update risk assessments.
  • Consider alternative measures such as alarmed door sensors or increased supervision.
• If a service user wishes to lock their door but staff are concerned about safety:
  • Encourage discussion around risks and responsibilities.
  • Ensure that emergency access is always available.
  • Implement monitoring strategies to maintain safety.

8. Staff Training and Responsibilities

• All staff must be trained on:
  • The legal and ethical considerations of locking service user doors.
  • Emergency access procedures.
  • The balance between autonomy, safety, and best interests.
• Care staff responsibilities include:
  • Respecting service user preferences.
  • Reporting concerns about inappropriate locking or security risks.
  • Ensuring that all decisions are recorded appropriately.

9. Documentation and Record-Keeping

• Care Plans:
  • Each service user’s preference regarding door locking must be documented.
  • Risk assessments should be regularly updated.
• Incident Reporting:
  • Any issues related to door locking (e.g., difficulty accessing a room in an emergency) must be documented.
  • Any suspected deprivation of liberty must be escalated to management immediately.
• CQC Notification Requirements:
  • If a deprivation of liberty application is required, it must be reported under CQC notification procedures.

10. Related Policies

• CH07-Person-Centred Care Policy
• CH08-Dignity and Respect Policy
• CH12-Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• CH18-Risk Management and Assessment Policy
• CH23-Lone Working and Staff Safety Policy
• CH39-Mental Capacity and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards Policy

11. Policy Review

• This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if changes in CQC regulations or legal guidance occur.
• Amendments will be made to ensure compliance with service user rights and best practices.
• Regular training and audits will be conducted to ensure adherence.

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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}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.