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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Night Shift Management Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish a structured and safe approach to managing night shifts at {{org_field_name}}. Night shifts play a critical role in ensuring the well-being, safety, and dignity of service users while maintaining a high standard of care. This policy sets out clear expectations for staff, ensuring compliance with CIW regulations and best practices in workforce management.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all night shift staff, including:

• Registered nurses and care assistants
• Senior care staff and duty managers
• Night security personnel (if applicable)
• Agency and temporary staff

The policy covers:

• Staffing levels and responsibilities
• Safety and security procedures
• Service user support and monitoring
• Emergency response during night shifts
• Well-being of night shift staff

3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

This policy complies with:

• The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, ensuring safe and high-quality care at all times.
• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, protecting staff and service users.
• The Working Time Regulations 1998, ensuring night shift workers’ rights are upheld.
• CIW Workforce and Staffing Regulations, ensuring adequate staffing levels and skill mix.
• The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, ensuring staff use correct techniques for assisting service users during the night.

4. Night Shift Staffing Levels and Responsibilities

{{org_field_name}} ensures that night shift staffing is adequate and appropriate based on the number and needs of service users.

4.1 Minimum Staffing Levels

• The Registered Manager ensures the correct staffing ratio is in place at all times, in line with CIW regulations.
• Night shifts always include a senior staff member responsible for overseeing care.
• Agency or relief staff will be used only when necessary and will receive a night shift induction before commencing duties.

4.2 Staff Responsibilities During Night Shifts

• Senior Care Staff/Duty Manager:
  • Lead the night shift and ensure care delivery meets regulatory standards.
  • Conduct handover meetings with day shift staff.
  • Ensure all incidents are recorded and reported appropriately.
• Care Assistants/Nurses:
  • Provide personal care and respond to service user needs.
  • Conduct hourly or individualised welfare checks.
  • Administer medications as per the Medication Management Policy (CHW21).
• Security/Night Staff (if applicable):
  • Monitor entry points and ensure premises security.
  • Respond to emergencies or unauthorised visitors.

5. Night Shift Handover Procedures

A structured handover meeting must take place at the beginning and end of each night shift.

5.1 Key Elements of the Handover

• Update on service users’ health and well-being.
• Report on any incidents, accidents, or changes in behaviour.
• Medication administration details.
• Any staff concerns or issues raised during the shift.

The handover must be documented and signed by the outgoing and incoming staff.

6. Service User Support and Monitoring

All service users must receive appropriate care and attention during the night.

6.1 Regular Welfare Checks

• Frequency of checks is based on individual care plans.
• Staff must be discreet and respectful when checking on service users.
• Any signs of distress, discomfort, or health concerns must be reported immediately.

6.2 Managing Sleep Disturbances

• Staff should support service users with gentle reassurance and comfort.
• If required, service users can be assisted with personal care or hydration needs.
• Persistent sleep issues should be recorded in the care plan and discussed with healthcare professionals.

7. Emergency Procedures During Night Shifts

Night shift staff must be trained and prepared to handle emergencies effectively.

7.1 Medical Emergencies

• Call 999 for life-threatening situations.
• Provide first aid if required, following training guidelines.
• Contact the on-call senior staff member and document the incident.

7.2 Fire Safety and Evacuation

• Staff must be familiar with the Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures (CHW20).
• Fire exits must remain unobstructed and accessible at all times.
• In case of fire, follow the evacuation plan and assist service users as required.

7.3 Missing Person Protocol

• If a service user is unaccounted for, conduct a thorough search of the premises.
• If not found, contact emergency services and follow the safeguarding policy (CHW13).

8. Staff Well-being and Fatigue Management

{{org_field_name}} is committed to supporting night shift workers’ physical and mental well-being.

8.1 Breaks and Rest Periods

• Night shift staff are entitled to appropriate breaks in line with the Working Time Regulations.
• A designated staff rest area is provided.

8.2 Fatigue Prevention Strategies

• Staff should avoid long consecutive night shifts.
• Staff will be encouraged to stay hydrated and eat balanced meals before and during shifts.
• A buddy system may be used to ensure staff remain alert.

8.3 Mental Health Support

• Staff experiencing difficulties with night work can access confidential support.
• Regular well-being check-ins will be conducted by management.

9. Security and Restricted Access During Night Hours

To maintain security during night shifts:

• All external doors must remain locked, with controlled access.
• Visitors must be pre-authorised, except in emergencies.
• A night logbook must be maintained to record any unusual activities.

10. Record Keeping and Documentation

Night shift staff must accurately document all care activities, incidents, and observations. This includes:

• Service user welfare and behaviour changes.
• Medication administration and refusals.
• Accidents, falls, or incidents occurring overnight.
• Unusual events or security breaches.

All records must be signed and dated and stored securely in line with the Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy (CHW34).

11. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

• Safe Care and Treatment Policy (CHW11)
• Staff Supervision, Training, and Development Policy (CHW27)
• Risk Management and Assessment Policy (CHW18)
• Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures (CHW20)
• Medication Management Policy (CHW21)
• Health and Safety at Work Policy (CHW16)

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislative changes or operational needs require amendments. Updates will be communicated to all staff.

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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.