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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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HIV Awareness and Support Policy

1. Purpose

This policy outlines {{org_field_name}}’s commitment to ensuring that people we support, staff, and visitors receive the necessary awareness, support, and care regarding HIV. It ensures compliance with CQC Fundamental Standards, the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, Equality Act 2010, Public Health England (PHE) Guidance on HIV in Care Settings, and National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) HIV Care Guidelines. This policy aims to promote dignity, respect, and inclusion while ensuring staff have the knowledge and resources to provide safe and effective care for individuals living with HIV.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, people we support, and visitors at {{org_field_name}}. It covers education, infection prevention, confidentiality, medication management, safeguarding, and psychosocial support. The policy ensures a stigma-free, person-centred approach to HIV care in our service.

3. Related Policies

• Dignity and Respect Policy (CH08)
• Safe Care and Treatment Policy (CH11)
• Confidentiality and Data Protection (GDPR) Policy (CH34)
• Infection Prevention and Control Policy (CH17)
• Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy (CH30)
• Medication Management and Administration Policy (CH21)

4. Policy Statement {{org_field_name}} is dedicated to ensuring that individuals living with HIV receive the highest standard of care, free from discrimination and stigma. Our approach is person-centred, supporting the rights, dignity, and well-being of people we support while ensuring staff are educated and equipped to manage HIV-related care effectively.

5. HIV Awareness and Education

• All staff receive mandatory training on HIV, including transmission, prevention, treatment, and myths to combat stigma.
• Training includes universal precautions, confidentiality, and the legal rights of individuals living with HIV.
• Educational materials, such as posters, leaflets, and workshops, are available for people we support and their families.

6. Confidentiality and Data Protection

• HIV status is strictly confidential and protected under the Data Protection Act 2018 (GDPR) and Equality Act 2010.
• Only staff who need to know about an individual’s HIV status for care provision will have access to this information.
• Written consent must be obtained before sharing any information regarding an individual’s HIV status.
• Breaches of confidentiality will be addressed under staff disciplinary procedures.

7. Infection Prevention and Control

• HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact; however, all staff must follow standard infection control precautions.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is available for use when handling bodily fluids, ensuring universal precautions are adhered to.
• First aid procedures must follow universal precautions, treating all bodily fluids as potentially infectious.
• Sharps disposal must be managed according to Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment) and local authority guidelines.

8. Medication Management and Adherence Support

• People we support who require antiretroviral therapy (ART) are assisted in medication adherence while respecting their independence.
• Medication is stored securely in line with Medication Management Policy (CH21) and CQC regulations.
• Staff administering medications must receive specific training in HIV treatment protocols.
• Collaboration with healthcare providers ensures timely medication reviews and adherence support.

9. Safeguarding and Discrimination Protection

• HIV-related discrimination is strictly prohibited under the Equality Act 2010.
• Staff must report any discrimination experienced by people we support, either within the service or externally.
• Staff are trained to identify and respond to safeguarding concerns, including HIV-related abuse or neglect.
• Safeguarding protocols are followed in line with Regulation 13 (Safeguarding) and multi-agency safeguarding frameworks.

10. Psychosocial and Emotional Support

• People living with HIV often experience mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or social isolation.
• Counselling and peer support referrals are provided where needed.
• Staff encourage positive mental well-being, providing emotional reassurance and linking individuals to HIV support organisations.
• People we support are encouraged to participate in activities that promote social inclusion and empowerment.

11. Equal Access to Care and Services

• People living with HIV have full and equal access to all care services provided at {{org_field_name}}.
• Staff must ensure that care plans reflect the specific health and social needs of people living with HIV.
• Any reasonable adjustments required for medical appointments or specialised care must be accommodated.

12. Staff Responsibilities

• Registered Manager:
  • Oversees policy implementation and ensures compliance with HIV care regulations.
  • Monitors training completion and ensures staff competency in HIV awareness.
  • Addresses discrimination or breaches of confidentiality.
• Care Staff:
  • Provide person-centred care while maintaining confidentiality.
  • Support medication adherence and encourage health-positive behaviours.
  • Identify and report any safeguarding or discrimination concerns.
• Infection Control Lead:
  • Ensures adherence to infection prevention protocols.
  • Provides ongoing staff training in universal precautions and HIV transmission prevention.

13. Emergency Response and Health Management

• Emergency situations (e.g., exposure to bodily fluids) follow Occupational Health and PHE guidelines.
• Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is available in high-risk occupational exposure cases, following NHS and PHE protocols.
• Staff are trained to recognise opportunistic infections and complications related to HIV.

14. Training and Continuous Professional Development

• HIV awareness training is included in staff induction and ongoing training programmes.
• Additional training is available on latest advancements in HIV treatment, prevention, and care.
• Staff are encouraged to participate in external HIV awareness workshops and engage with HIV advocacy organisations.

15. Policy Review This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if changes in CQC guidance, HIV care standards, or operational needs require an update.

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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.