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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Compliance with the Care Act 2014 Policy

1. Purpose

This policy ensures that {{org_field_name}} fully complies with the Care Act 2014, which sets out the legal framework for adult social care in England and Wales. The Care Act 2014 focuses on well-being, prevention, and the integration of services, placing individuals at the centre of care planning and delivery. This policy establishes how {{org_field_name}} implements and adheres to the principles and statutory requirements of the Act, ensuring high-quality, person-centred care for all residents. It also provides guidance to staff and CIW inspectors on how compliance is managed efficiently within our care home.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, management, and stakeholders within {{org_field_name}}. It covers the legal duties and responsibilities of the care home, ensuring that our services align with the principles of the Care Act 2014. It is relevant to all care and support services provided, including safeguarding, assessments, care planning, and integration with other health and social care professionals.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

• Care Act 2014 – Establishes the framework for adult social care and the rights of individuals receiving care and support.
• Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016 – Outlines the legal requirements for care services in Wales, reinforcing the Care Act 2014.
• Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 – Emphasises person-centred care and the duty of local authorities to support well-being.
• The Regulated Services (Service Providers and Responsible Individuals) (Wales) Regulations 2017 – Specifies provider responsibilities for delivering compliant care services.
• CIW Guidance and Inspection Frameworks – Provides standards and best practice expectations for care providers in Wales.

4. Key Compliance Areas and Implementation at {{org_field_name}}

4.1. Well-being and Person-Centred Care The Care Act 2014 places well-being at the heart of social care. We ensure that:

• Every resident has a person-centred care plan, developed with their input and regularly reviewed.
• Care plans focus on individual preferences, choices, and independence to promote dignity and autonomy.
• Staff are trained to use the Short Observational Framework for Inspection (SOFI2) methodology to monitor and enhance well-being.
• Regular resident meetings and surveys are conducted to understand their needs, ensuring services align with their wishes and expectations.

4.2. Needs Assessment and Eligibility Criteria Under the Care Act 2014, all individuals have the right to an assessment to determine their care needs. We ensure compliance by:

• Conducting comprehensive initial assessments using CIW-compliant tools.
• Ensuring assessments cover physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
• Reviewing care plans at least every six months or whenever a change in circumstances occurs.
• Engaging with local authorities and healthcare professionals to coordinate assessments effectively.

4.3. Duty of Care and Preventing Harm Our duty of care is paramount in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. We manage this efficiently by:

• Implementing a robust Safeguarding Policy, in line with CIW and local safeguarding procedures.
• Conducting thorough staff training on recognising, reporting, and responding to abuse or neglect.
• Maintaining an open culture where staff, residents, and families feel empowered to report concerns without fear of repercussions.
• Conducting regular safeguarding audits to ensure full compliance with legislation and best practice.

4.4. Integration with Health and Social Care Services The Care Act 2014 promotes integration between care providers and health and social care services. We support this by:

• Maintaining effective communication with GPs, community nurses, social workers, and mental health professionals.
• Participating in multi-disciplinary team (MDT) meetings to coordinate care plans and interventions.
• Using secure digital record-keeping systems to share essential information while adhering to GDPR requirements.
• Encouraging joint training initiatives with local health services to ensure cohesive, high-quality care delivery.

4.5. Carers’ Rights and Support We recognise the essential role of carers and ensure they are supported in line with the Care Act 2014 by:

• Providing information and advice services to carers on support options available.
• Offering respite care and flexible visitation policies to accommodate carers’ needs.
• Involving carers in care planning and ensuring their voices are heard.
• Ensuring carers are aware of their rights and entitlements under the law.

4.6. Safeguarding and Protection from Abuse and Neglect Safeguarding is a fundamental requirement of the Care Act 2014. At {{org_field_name}}, we ensure compliance through:

• A zero-tolerance approach to abuse, neglect, or poor care practices.
• Mandatory safeguarding training for all staff, including refresher sessions.
• Immediate reporting of concerns to local safeguarding teams and CIW.
• Ensuring all safeguarding measures are auditable, transparent, and fully documented.

4.7. Advocacy and Ensuring Individuals’ Rights We uphold residents’ rights by ensuring they have access to independent advocacy where needed. We achieve this by:

• Supporting individuals to access independent advocates where they lack capacity or require additional support in decision-making.
• Training staff on advocacy principles to ensure all interactions respect residents’ autonomy and rights.
• Ensuring that residents fully understand their care options and can make informed choices about their support.

4.8. Market Shaping and Provider Failure Response To comply with the Care Act’s requirements for sustainability and contingency planning, we:

• Develop business continuity plans to ensure uninterrupted care in the event of provider failure.
• Maintain financial stability through rigorous budget management and risk assessments.
• Work with local authorities and CIW to ensure alternative care arrangements are available if required.
• Ensure all service users and their families are informed of any significant operational changes that may affect their care.

5. Related Policies

• CHW04: Good Governance
• CHW07: Person-Centred Care Policy
• CHW08: Dignity and Respect Policy
• CHW13: Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
• CHW15: Regulated Activities Compliance Policy
• CHW18: Risk Management and Assessment Policy
• CHW27: Staff Supervision, Training, and Development Policy
• CHW34: Confidentiality and Data Protection (GDPR) Policy

6. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislative changes, CIW regulations, or operational needs dictate. Updates will be disseminated to all relevant staff to maintain compliance and best practice at {{org_field_name}}.

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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.