CH198-Accessing the Garden Area Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Accessing the Garden Area Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that individuals receiving care and support from {{org_field_name}} are enabled and supported to access garden or outdoor areas safely and meaningfully, where such access is part of their care plan. This policy reflects our commitment to promoting well-being, independence, physical activity, and social inclusion, in line with Regulation 9 (Person-Centred Care), Regulation 10 (Dignity and Respect), and the wellbeing principles of the Care Act 2014.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all domiciliary care staff, volunteers, and support workers who assist people in their own homes. It includes those who provide personal care, companionship, or practical support where garden access is a feature of the individual’s day-to-day routine or preferred activities.

3. Related Policies

CH07-Person-Centred Care Policy
CH09-Consent to Care Policy
CH11-Safe Care and Treatment Policy
CH13-Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
CH16-Health and Safety at Work Policy
CH18-Risk Management and Assessment Policy
CH40-Assisting with Personal Care Policy

4. Policy Statement

{{org_field_name}} recognises the therapeutic, psychological, and physical benefits of time spent outdoors, especially in garden or green spaces. Our role is to support safe, dignified, and enjoyable access to such areas while ensuring that all necessary risk assessments, permissions, and safeguards are in place. We encourage use of the garden area to support wellbeing, mobility, sensory stimulation, and personalised activities.

5. Key Principles and Implementation

a. Person-Centred Planning and Consent
Access to garden areas is always based on individual choice and consent. Care plans detail whether the person enjoys outdoor activities, has specific preferences (e.g. gardening, bird-watching), and requires any support. Where the person lacks capacity, decisions must be made in their best interests in line with the Mental Capacity Act 2005, and care records must document who was consulted and what outcome was reached.

b. Risk Assessment and Safety Checks
A garden access risk assessment is completed for each person who wishes to use their outdoor area. This includes consideration of steps, uneven ground, slippery surfaces, exposure to weather, garden tools, and potential allergens. We assess the person’s mobility, cognitive status, sensory impairments, and behaviours to ensure safety. Staff are trained to review conditions before each visit (e.g. icy paths or unsecured gates) and make decisions to postpone access if unsafe.

c. Support and Supervision
People may be supported in the garden independently, with supervision, or with direct assistance, depending on their care plan. Staff assist with mobility aids, outdoor seating, hydration, and temperature-appropriate clothing. Supervision levels are based on assessed risk and professional judgement. Staff must remain with the person if the care plan requires it and never leave the person alone in the garden if it presents a risk.

d. Encouraging Participation and Choice
Accessing the garden should never be a passive experience. Staff are encouraged to involve individuals in activities such as planting, watering, reading, relaxing, or having a conversation. The garden is used as an extension of person-centred care to support autonomy, reduce isolation, and promote physical activity.

e. Seasonal Considerations
Staff ensure people are dressed appropriately for the weather, including coats, hats, sunscreen, or blankets as needed. Access to the garden is encouraged year-round, with safety adjustments for seasons (e.g. ensuring paths are clear in winter, shaded seating in summer). Hydration is promoted during warmer months, and signs of overheating or cold exposure are closely monitored.

f. Environmental Hygiene and Maintenance
Staff are responsible for ensuring that the outdoor space used is clean, tidy, and safe. Hazards such as broken paving, loose garden tools, animal waste, or waterlogged ground are noted and reported to the office and, if necessary, the individual or their representative. {{org_field_name}} does not take responsibility for maintaining private gardens but will flag risks in line with safeguarding and health and safety duties.

g. Infection Control and Allergens
Staff adhere to infection control guidance when outdoors, especially following the use of gloves, handling tools, or assisting with personal care. Allergies (e.g. pollen, bee stings) are assessed and recorded in care plans. Staff are trained to recognise signs of allergic reactions and respond appropriately.

h. Safeguarding and Privacy
People must not be exposed to unnecessary risks or breaches of dignity while outdoors. Staff ensure that garden access does not compromise privacy (e.g. use of screens, appropriate clothing) and remain vigilant to the risk of strangers approaching or individuals wandering away. Any safeguarding concerns are reported immediately to the {{org_field_safeguarding_lead_name}}, {{org_field_safeguarding_lead_role}}.

i. Documentation
Each instance of supported garden access is documented in the person’s daily care notes, including any notable incidents, mood, enjoyment, or issues observed. Changes to outdoor preferences or health concerns identified during garden use must be recorded and communicated to the line manager.

6. Training and Responsibilities

Staff receive induction and refresher training on safe mobility assistance, environmental risk management, and person-centred outdoor engagement. They are responsible for adhering to care plans, updating risk assessments as needed, and ensuring that garden use remains a positive and safe experience.

7. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to changes in guidance, CQC expectations, or identified improvements. All staff will be informed of updates, and additional training will be provided 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.