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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Smoking Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to set out clear guidance on managing smoking within {{org_field_name}} in a way that respects individual rights while protecting the health, safety, and well-being of staff, visitors, and the people we support. It ensures compliance with the Health Act 2006, CQC Regulation 12 – Safe Care and Treatment, and Regulation 10 – Dignity and Respect​​. This policy covers smoking, including tobacco, e-cigarettes, and vaping devices.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, agency workers, volunteers, contractors, and individuals supported by {{org_field_name}}. It applies during care delivery in people’s homes, in any premises controlled by the organisation (e.g. offices or training venues), and during any work-related activity or transportation involving staff and service users.

3. Related Policies

• CH11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• CH16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
• CH18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
• CH24 – Management of Accidents, Incidents, and Near Misses Policy
• CH27 – Staff Supervision, Training, and Development Policy
• CH28 – Staff Conduct and Code of Ethics Policy

4. Policy Statement and Responsibilities

Organisational Commitment
{{org_field_name}} supports a smoke-free working environment and promotes healthy lifestyle choices among staff and the people we support. We recognise that smoking is a personal choice but are committed to ensuring that it does not compromise health, safety, or dignity. We balance the rights of individuals to smoke with our duty to protect others from second-hand smoke exposure.

Smoking in People’s Homes
While we respect that the people we support have the right to smoke in their own homes, we also have a responsibility to protect staff from the harmful effects of passive smoking. Therefore:

• Service users are asked not to smoke for at least one hour before a scheduled visit
• Staff may request ventilation if smoke levels are high upon entry
• If the person chooses to smoke during a visit, staff may politely ask them to refrain until care tasks are completed
• If the environment poses a health risk, a risk assessment will be carried out and alternative arrangements considered
• Smoking-related risks must be recorded in the care plan and reviewed regularly
  This approach complies with the Health Act 2006 and supports person-centred care and staff safety.

Staff Smoking During Working Hours
Staff are not permitted to smoke:

• In uniform or when wearing any item that identifies them with {{org_field_name}}
• Inside service users’ homes, at entrances, or within sight of the person being supported
• During working hours, except on designated breaks and in permitted outdoor areas
  Staff who smoke during breaks must ensure they return freshened and smoke-free to maintain professionalism and comfort for those they support. Breaches of this policy may lead to disciplinary action under CH28 – Staff Conduct and Code of Ethics Policy.

Use of E-Cigarettes and Vaping Devices
The use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices is treated in the same way as smoking tobacco. Although these products are used by some as a smoking cessation aid, staff must:

• Only use vaping devices during authorised breaks and in designated areas
• Not vape inside service users’ homes, vehicles, or while on duty
  Service users who use vaping devices will be supported with the same dignity and risk assessment process as tobacco smokers.

Fire Safety and Environmental Risk
Smoking presents a known fire hazard. Therefore:

• No smoking is permitted near oxygen equipment, flammable products, or medical devices
• Smoking-related fire risks must be included in the home risk assessment
• Ashtrays must be used appropriately, and staff must never assist in unsafe smoking practices
• Any observed hazards (e.g. burn marks, improper disposal of cigarettes) must be reported to the Registered Manager
  This supports compliance with CH16 – Health and Safety Policy and ensures all environments are risk-assessed for fire hazards related to smoking.

Support for Smoking Cessation
{{org_field_name}} supports staff and service users who wish to stop smoking. We will:

• Provide information about local smoking cessation services
• Encourage GPs and community health professionals to be involved in smoking reduction plans
• Include smoking status and support preferences in care planning discussions where appropriate
  We aim to promote well-being without judgement and in line with the individual’s capacity and personal goals.

Training and Staff Awareness
All staff will receive training on:

• The organisation’s Smoking Policy and their responsibilities
• Risks associated with second-hand smoke
• Communicating respectfully about smoking restrictions
• Risk assessing environments where smoking occurs
  This training is included in induction and refreshed annually or as required by changes in legislation or guidance.

Monitoring and Review
The Registered Manager is responsible for:

• Monitoring adherence to this policy
• Reviewing smoking-related incidents or concerns
• Ensuring individual risk assessments are completed where relevant
• Updating procedures based on changes in public health guidance or legislation
  Any issues arising will be addressed through governance procedures under Regulation 17 – Good Governance​.

5. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, safety advice, or organisational need. Any updates will be communicated to staff and incorporated into training and supervision processes.

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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.