{{org_field_logo}}

{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

---

Shaving People Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all residents at {{org_field_name}} receive safe, dignified, and person-centred shaving assistance as part of their personal care routine. This policy aims to protect residents from injury, infection, or distress by outlining clear procedures for safe shaving practices, taking into account personal preferences, hygiene, and infection control measures.

This policy aligns with The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, and best practices in infection prevention and personal care. It also ensures compliance with the principles of dignity, respect, and individual choice in personal grooming.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Residents who require assistance or supervision with shaving.
• Staff members providing shaving support.
• External professionals such as barbers or hairdressers offering grooming services.
• Family members or visitors assisting residents with shaving.

3. Managing Shaving Efficiently

3.1 Resident Choice and Personal Preferences

Shaving is a highly personal aspect of grooming, and each resident’s preferences should be respected. Residents should have the freedom to choose:

• Whether they want to shave or maintain facial hair.
• The type of shaving equipment they prefer (e.g., electric razor, disposable razor, or traditional wet shave).
• The frequency of shaving, ensuring their comfort and self-image are maintained.

Before assisting with shaving, staff must:

• Obtain the resident’s consent and discuss their preferences.
• Refer to the resident’s care plan, which documents their shaving routine, skin sensitivities, and any previous issues with shaving.
• Ensure that residents who wish to use professional barbers are supported in arranging appointments.

If a resident lacks capacity to make decisions about shaving, a best-interest decision should be made following the Mental Capacity Act 2005, ensuring their dignity and personal appearance preferences are maintained.

3.2 Infection Control and Hygiene Measures

Shaving poses a risk of cuts, bleeding, and potential infections. To minimise these risks, strict hygiene protocols must be followed:

• Staff must wash their hands before and after assisting with shaving.
• Each resident must have their own shaving equipment (e.g., personal razors, shaving brush, electric shaver).
• Shared equipment (e.g., electric razors) must be cleaned and disinfected between uses.
• If a resident has a skin infection, open wounds, or a bleeding disorder, alternative grooming methods should be considered, and medical advice sought if necessary.
• Disposable razors should be single-use only and disposed of safely in a sharps container.

If a resident has a known bloodborne virus (e.g., Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or HIV), additional infection control precautions must be taken, including strict personal equipment use and proper disposal methods.

3.3 Safety Considerations and Risk Assessments

Shaving, particularly with traditional razors, carries risks such as cuts, skin irritation, and accidental injury. To ensure resident safety:

• A risk assessment must be completed for each resident who requires shaving assistance, taking into account their skin condition, medical history, and personal preferences.
• Electric razors are recommended for residents with tremors, limited mobility, or cognitive impairment, reducing the risk of cuts.
• Residents taking anticoagulant medication (blood thinners) should only be shaved using an electric razor to avoid excessive bleeding from minor cuts.
• Shaving should be carried out in well-lit, comfortable environments where the resident feels relaxed and supported.

If a resident has a history of aggressive behaviour or involuntary movements, their care plan should specify the safest shaving method and any alternative grooming arrangements.

3.4 Procedure for Safe Shaving Assistance

Care staff should follow these step-by-step guidelines when assisting residents with shaving:

1. Preparation
   • Wash hands and wear disposable gloves.
   • Ensure the shaving area is well-lit and comfortable.
   • Check the resident’s skin condition for cuts, rashes, or infections.
   • Prepare warm water and shaving cream, if using a wet shave.
2. Shaving Process
   • Apply shaving gel or cream to soften hair and reduce skin irritation.
   • Shave in the direction of hair growth to prevent irritation.
   • Use gentle strokes to avoid nicks and cuts.
   • Rinse the razor frequently during the process.
3. Post-Shave Care
   • Rinse the resident’s face with warm water.
   • Apply a moisturiser or aftershave lotion, if preferred.
   • Check for any cuts or irritation, applying a sterile dressing if necessary.
   • Dispose of used razors safely in a sharps container.

All shaving activities must be recorded in the resident’s care plan, noting any concerns, skin reactions, or special preferences.

3.5 Supporting Residents with Additional Needs

Some residents may require specialist support with shaving due to:

• Dementia or cognitive impairment, where they may forget how to shave safely.
• Physical disabilities that prevent them from holding or using a razor effectively.
• Mental health conditions that may lead to self-neglect or resistance to personal care.

For these residents, staff should:

• Use calm, reassuring communication to explain the shaving process.
• Offer mirror guidance, allowing the resident to participate where possible.
• Respect resident autonomy and only proceed if they are comfortable and consenting.
• Use alternative grooming methods, such as electric shavers, if manual shaving poses a risk.

If a resident consistently refuses to shave but appears distressed by their facial hair, staff should explore alternative solutions, including family involvement or professional grooming services.

3.6 Family and External Grooming Services

Residents who prefer family members or professional barbers to assist with shaving should be supported in arranging these services. {{org_field_name}} ensures:

• Visitors follow hygiene and infection control protocols if assisting with shaving.
• Residents who wish to attend external barber appointments are supported with transport and scheduling.
• Mobile grooming services are welcomed, provided they follow the home’s infection control policies.

3.7 Safeguarding Against Shaving-Related Injuries

To prevent injuries, discomfort, or neglect, {{org_field_name}} has clear safeguarding protocols in place:

• Any shaving-related injuries must be documented and reported immediately to the senior carer or nurse on duty.
• Unexplained cuts or bruises must be investigated under the Safeguarding Adults Policy.
• If a resident is found to be neglecting personal grooming, this should be addressed through care planning and family discussions.

4. Responsibilities

4.1 Management Responsibilities

• Ensuring staff are trained in safe shaving techniques and infection control.
• Reviewing resident care plans to ensure shaving preferences and risks are documented.
• Providing appropriate shaving equipment to meet resident needs.

4.2 Staff Responsibilities

• Ensuring shaving is performed safely, respectfully, and in line with resident preferences.
• Reporting any skin issues, injuries, or safeguarding concerns.
• Following strict infection control measures when handling shaving equipment.

4.3 Resident and Family Responsibilities

• Communicating personal grooming preferences to staff.
• Reporting any concerns or discomfort with shaving assistance.
• Arranging external barber services where preferred.

5. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

• Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• Dignity and Respect Policy
• Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Neglect Policy

6. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if new CIW guidance emerges. The Registered Manager is responsible for ensuring compliance.

---

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.