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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Emergency and Business Continuity Plan

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} is fully prepared to respond effectively to emergencies, critical incidents, and business disruptions, ensuring the safety, well-being, and continuity of care for the people we support.

This policy outlines how we anticipate, plan for, and respond to emergencies, including fire, medical emergencies, pandemics, power outages, severe weather, IT failures, and staff shortages. It details how we mitigate risks, protect lives, and maintain essential services in line with CQC regulations, the Health and Social Care Act 2008, and Civil Contingencies Act 2004.

By implementing this Emergency and Business Continuity Plan, {{org_field_name}} ensures that care provision remains resilient, adaptable, and capable of managing unexpected challenges effectively.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All employees (full-time, part-time, agency, and volunteer staff).
• People we support (residents) and their families.
• Contractors and external service providers.
• Emergency responders and relevant authorities (e.g., Fire & Rescue, NHS, local councils).

Every staff member is responsible for understanding and implementing the plan as part of their role.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy is aligned with:

• Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 – Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment), which requires care providers to have systems in place to manage risks and respond to emergencies.
• Care Act 2014, which places a duty on local authorities and care providers to ensure continuity of care for people receiving services.
• Civil Contingencies Act 2004, which mandates that health and social care providers must have emergency response plans to ensure the continuation of essential services.
• CQC Fundamental Standards, requiring care homes to provide safe and effective care in all circumstances, including during emergencies.

By following these legal and regulatory requirements, {{org_field_name}} ensures preparedness, compliance, and operational resilience.

4. Risk Assessment and Emergency Preparedness

4.1 Identifying Risks and Hazards

To ensure proactive emergency planning, we conduct risk assessments to identify potential threats that could impact the care home. These include:

• Fire hazards, including electrical faults, kitchen fires, and smoking-related risks.
• Extreme weather conditions, such as heatwaves, storms, and flooding.
• Medical emergencies, including outbreaks of infectious diseases.
• Utility failures, such as power cuts, gas leaks, and water supply disruptions.
• IT and communication failures, affecting care records and emergency contacts.
• Staff shortages, due to illness, strikes, or transport disruptions.
• Security threats, including unauthorised access or violent incidents.

Each identified risk is assessed for likelihood and impact, and corresponding preventative measures are put in place to mitigate potential disruption.

4.2 Fire Safety and Evacuation Plan

Fire safety is a top priority at {{org_field_name}}, and all staff are trained in fire prevention and evacuation procedures.

• A fire risk assessment is conducted annually and reviewed whenever changes occur.
• Fire alarms, extinguishers, and emergency exits are routinely checked and maintained.
• Staff participate in regular fire drills to ensure a coordinated and efficient evacuation process.
• Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) are created for individuals requiring assistance during an evacuation.
• Emergency contacts and fire assembly points are clearly displayed.

By ensuring full fire safety compliance, we protect lives and maintain CQC and Fire Safety Order 2005 regulations.

4.3 Medical Emergencies and Infection Control

Medical emergencies can arise at any time, requiring a swift and effective response.

• Staff are trained in first aid, CPR, and recognising signs of deterioration.
• Emergency protocols for heart attacks, strokes, choking, and falls are in place.
• Defibrillators and first aid kits are accessible in key areas.
• In cases of infectious disease outbreaks, we follow Public Health England (PHE) guidance on infection control, isolation, and PPE use.
• Emergency medication protocols ensure that all individuals receive timely and appropriate treatment.

By having clear medical emergency plans, we safeguard health and safety in all circumstances.

4.4 Utility and IT Failure Response

Unplanned power outages, water supply issues, and IT failures can severely impact care provision.

• Backup generators are in place to maintain essential power for medical devices, lighting, and heating.
• Bottled water reserves ensure continued hydration and sanitation in case of water disruptions.
• Paper-based care plans serve as emergency backups in the event of IT failures.
• Alternative communication systems (e.g., mobile networks, satellite phones) are available if landlines or internet services fail.

Regular contingency drills ensure that staff know how to respond effectively to technical and infrastructure failures.

4.5 Staff Shortages and Emergency Cover

In the event of unexpected staff shortages, {{org_field_name}} maintains an emergency workforce strategy to ensure uninterrupted care.

• A pool of on-call agency staff is available to provide additional support when needed.
• Cross-training of staff allows employees to cover multiple roles if required.
• Remote working protocols enable non-frontline staff to provide administrative and operational support if necessary.
• A staff buddy system ensures that no essential care tasks are left unattended during absences.

By planning ahead for staffing shortages, we maintain consistent and safe care delivery at all times.

5. Business Continuity and Recovery Strategy

5.1 Communication During Emergencies

Clear and effective communication is essential during a crisis.

• A designated Emergency Response Coordinator oversees all emergency communications.
• Staff, residents, and families are promptly informed about incidents and action plans.
• Emergency contact lists are updated regularly to ensure accurate information is available.
• External agencies, such as local authorities, the NHS, and emergency services, are notified when necessary.

5.2 Maintaining Essential Services

In the event of a major disruption, we prioritise the continuation of critical services, including:

• Medication management – ensuring prescriptions and stock levels are maintained.
• Food and hydration supply – alternative suppliers and stock reserves ensure ongoing nutrition.
• Medical care and hygiene – alternative arrangements are made for essential care procedures.

Contingency measures are reviewed regularly to ensure that care delivery remains uninterrupted.

5.3 Post-Emergency Review and Learning

After every emergency incident, a thorough review is conducted to identify lessons learned and areas for improvement.

• Staff debriefing sessions ensure everyone’s experiences and feedback are recorded.
• Incident reports are analysed to improve future responses.
• Action plans are updated based on lessons learned.

This continuous improvement approach ensures that {{org_field_name}} remains resilient and well-prepared for future incidents.

6. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually or earlier if emergency experiences, regulatory changes, or risk assessments require modifications.

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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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