CHW198-Accessing the Garden Area Policy
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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
Accessing the Garden Area Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all individuals living at {{org_field_name}} can safely and freely access the garden or outdoor areas as part of their daily life, wellbeing, and personal choice. This policy outlines how the care home facilitates, supervises, and supports access to outdoor spaces in line with the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, The Regulated Services (Service Providers and Responsible Individuals) (Wales) Regulations 2017, and CIW’s expectations for promoting independence, physical and mental wellbeing, and choice. Outdoor access is considered essential to high-quality, person-centred care and contributes significantly to quality of life.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all individuals using the service, including those with physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments. It also applies to all staff involved in supporting outdoor access, including care staff, activities coordinators, maintenance personnel, domestic staff, and management. The policy also informs visitors, families, and professionals of the procedures in place to ensure safe and inclusive use of garden areas.
3. Related Policies
This policy should be read in conjunction with:
CHW07 – Person-Centred Care Policy
CHW08 – Dignity and Respect Policy
CHW11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
CHW13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
CHW16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
CHW18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
CHW24 – Management of Accidents, Incidents, and Near Misses Policy
CHW40 – Assisting with Personal Care Policy
4. Policy Statement
{{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring that outdoor spaces, including gardens, courtyards, patios, and any designated outdoor seating areas, are accessible, safe, and welcoming to all individuals. We recognise the therapeutic, emotional, and physical benefits of time spent outdoors. As such, individuals are supported and encouraged to use garden areas independently or with assistance, as appropriate to their needs, preferences, and risk assessments. Outdoor access is promoted throughout the day and integrated into care planning, activity programmes, and daily routines.
5. Accessibility and Inclusivity
Garden and outdoor areas are maintained to be fully accessible, with level or ramped access for wheelchairs, walkers, and mobility aids. Seating, shaded areas, handrails, and raised flower beds are installed to promote comfort and engagement. Pathways are wide, stable, and free from tripping hazards. Doorways to outdoor spaces are kept unlocked (unless part of a secure unit requiring controlled access) and clearly marked. Signage supports individuals with cognitive impairment or visual needs. All residents, regardless of mobility or care needs, are supported to access the garden at their request or as part of their daily activities.
6. Risk Assessment and Care Planning
Access to outdoor areas is assessed as part of each individual’s risk assessment and care plan. This includes consideration of physical safety, cognitive ability, known risks such as falls or wandering, and preferences for independent or supervised access. Where necessary, support is provided by care staff to escort individuals outside or remain nearby during their time in the garden. Restrictions on outdoor access are only applied in the context of clear risk, are proportionate, and are documented within the person’s care plan, in line with CHW18 – Risk Management Policy and CHW39 – Mental Capacity and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards Policy if applicable.
7. Supervision and Support
Individuals who require support to go outdoors are assisted promptly when they make a request. Staff are trained to support individuals respectfully, ensuring proper attire for weather conditions, and use of appropriate mobility aids. Garden use is included in activity schedules and care planning to encourage regular outdoor engagement. In secure or dementia units where access may be controlled, staff ensure regular supervised access and avoid unnecessary restrictions. No individual is left alone outside if their safety cannot be assured.
8. Weather and Environmental Considerations
Outdoor access is promoted year-round, with appropriate adaptations for weather. During warm weather, shaded areas, sun hats, and sunscreen are provided. In colder conditions, warm clothing and blankets are offered. The garden area is maintained to be safe and accessible in all seasons, including snow or wet weather checks by maintenance staff. During extreme weather conditions, staff assess risks and advise individuals appropriately, but outdoor access is not automatically restricted unless necessary for safety.
9. Maintenance and Safety Checks
The garden area is subject to regular safety inspections by the maintenance team and/or the Health and Safety Lead. These checks ensure that walkways are clear, furniture is stable, plants are non-toxic, and no hazards are present. Any damage, overgrowth, or obstruction is reported immediately and rectified as a priority. The area is cleaned regularly and kept free of litter or debris. Lighting is checked to ensure adequate visibility for early evening access.
10. Enhancing Quality of Life Through Outdoor Access
The outdoor area is used as an extension of the care environment, with space for gardening, bird-watching, walking, socialising, and relaxation. Residents are invited to participate in planting or garden-based activities, which are risk-assessed and supported where appropriate. Mealtimes, recreational activities, and family visits are held in outdoor areas when weather permits. Feedback from residents is gathered regularly to improve the garden experience.
11. Family and Visitor Use
Families and visitors are encouraged to use outdoor spaces with residents. Seating is arranged to allow for privacy and socialisation. Staff provide assistance when individuals wish to meet visitors outside. Signage for visitors reinforces safety and respect for all users. Children and pets accompanying visitors must be supervised.
12. Safeguarding and Incident Reporting
Any incident or concern arising in the garden area, including falls, confrontations, environmental hazards, or suspected neglect, is reported and documented in accordance with CHW24 – Management of Accidents and CHW13 – Safeguarding Policy. Staff remain alert to the risks associated with outdoor use, particularly in relation to individuals with cognitive impairments or mobility issues, and respond promptly to minimise harm.
13. Training and Staff Responsibilities
All staff receive training in safe supervision, manual handling, communication, and enabling independence. They are expected to promote and facilitate outdoor access as part of holistic, person-centred care. They are also responsible for checking appropriate clothing, hydration, and sunscreen use. Supervisors monitor staff attitudes and practice around access to the garden, ensuring no unnecessary barriers are placed between residents and outdoor spaces.
14. Monitoring and Continuous Improvement
The use and quality of outdoor areas are reviewed as part of our Quality of Care Review. Feedback is gathered from residents, families, and staff to inform improvements. Audits are carried out to review usage, safety, maintenance, and inclusion. Findings are used to improve garden design, access arrangements, and programming. CIW inspectors are provided with evidence of how outdoor access enhances wellbeing and aligns with regulatory requirements.
15. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner in response to changes in CIW guidance, health and safety legislation, or service user feedback. Any updates will be communicated to staff through meetings, training, and internal communications.
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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