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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Accessible Premises and Disability Inclusion Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} provides an inclusive, accessible, and safe environment for all residents, staff, and visitors, regardless of disability. We are committed to eliminating barriers that may prevent full participation in daily activities, care provision, and social engagement. This policy aligns with the Equality Act 2010, the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, CIW regulations, and best practice guidelines for accessibility and disability inclusion. It also ensures that all stakeholders are aware of their responsibilities in making the care home a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, residents, visitors, and external professionals within {{org_field_name}}. It covers:

• The physical accessibility of the premises, including adjustments to facilities and infrastructure.
• The implementation of reasonable adjustments to accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities.
• Staff training and awareness regarding disability inclusion and accessibility best practices.
• Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements related to accessibility, equality, and safeguarding of individuals with disabilities.
• The responsibilities of staff in ensuring accessibility and promoting inclusivity.

3. Principles of Accessibility and Inclusion

{{org_field_name}} is committed to the following principles:

• Dignity and Respect: Every individual has the right to live and receive care in an environment that promotes respect and dignity, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.
• Person-Centred Care: Support and accommodations are tailored to each individual’s specific needs, preferences, and aspirations to promote autonomy and well-being.
• Equal Access: All services, activities, and facilities should be accessible to individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have the same opportunities as others.
• Legal Compliance: Our care home strictly adheres to all legal and regulatory requirements, ensuring full compliance with accessibility and inclusion standards.
• Continuous Improvement: Accessibility is regularly reviewed to identify and remove barriers, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and evolving care environment.

4. Physical Accessibility of the Premises

• Entrance and Exit Accessibility:
  • All entrances and exits are step-free and equipped with ramps or automatic doors where required.
  • Accessible parking spaces are clearly marked and located close to the main entrance.
• Corridors and Doorways:
  • Corridors are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and walking aids without obstruction.
  • Doors are designed to be easy to open, with automatic or push-button options where possible.
• Lifts and Stairs:
  • Passenger lifts are available to provide access to all floors, with clear signage and audio announcements for individuals with visual impairments.
  • Staircases have handrails on both sides and contrasting markings on steps for added visibility.
• Bathrooms and Toilets:
  • Accessible bathrooms include grab rails, emergency pull cords, height-adjustable sinks, and spacious layouts to accommodate mobility aids.
  • Hoists and adapted bathing facilities are available for residents requiring additional assistance.
• Signage and Wayfinding:
  • Signage throughout the building is clear, high-contrast, and includes Braille and pictograms where necessary.
  • Digital wayfinding tools are available for residents who require additional support in navigating the premises.

5. Reasonable Adjustments and Assistive Technology

• Customised Care Plans:
  • Each resident undergoes an individual needs assessment to determine necessary adjustments to their environment and daily activities.
  • Reasonable adjustments are documented in the care plan and reviewed regularly.
• Assistive Devices and Equipment:
  • A range of mobility aids, including wheelchairs, walkers, and hoists, are provided to enhance residents’ independence.
  • Hearing loops and speech-to-text technology are available for residents with hearing impairments.
• Alternative Communication Methods:
  • Staff are trained in British Sign Language (BSL) and Makaton where required.
  • Accessible written materials in large print, audio, and easy-read formats ensure all residents have equal access to important information.
• Flexible Meal and Activity Arrangements:
  • Adaptations are made to dining areas and meal plans to accommodate dietary needs and mobility restrictions.
  • Recreational activities are designed to be inclusive, ensuring that all residents can participate regardless of physical ability.

6. Staff Training and Awareness

• Mandatory Disability Awareness Training:
  • All staff complete annual training on disability awareness, inclusion, and accessibility best practices.
  • Training covers communication techniques, reasonable adjustments, and supporting individuals with varying disabilities.
• Recognising and Responding to Additional Needs:
  • Staff are trained to identify mobility, sensory, cognitive, and communication impairments and to provide appropriate support.
• Promoting Inclusive Communication:
  • Staff use respectful, inclusive language in all interactions and ensure that communication barriers are minimised.
  • Guidance is provided on how to effectively communicate with residents with dementia, sensory impairments, and learning disabilities.

7. Emergency Evacuation and Safety Measures

• Accessible Emergency Exits:
  • Emergency exits are designed to be accessible for wheelchair users and individuals with mobility impairments.
  • Fire alarms include both audible and visual alerts to assist individuals with hearing impairments.
• Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs):
  • Each resident with a disability has a personalised evacuation plan outlining necessary assistance during emergencies.
• Evacuation Equipment:
  • Evacuation chairs, hoists, and other necessary equipment are available for assisting residents with mobility impairments.
• Regular Fire Drills and Training:
  • Staff receive training on inclusive fire drill procedures to ensure that all residents can evacuate safely in an emergency.

8. Involvement of Residents and Families

• Resident Feedback:
  • Residents are actively consulted on matters related to accessibility and disability inclusion, ensuring their voices are heard.
• Family and Advocate Involvement:
  • Families and advocates are encouraged to participate in discussions about accessibility measures and care planning.
  • Open channels of communication allow for suggestions and concerns to be addressed effectively.

9. Compliance and Monitoring

• Regular Accessibility Audits:
  • The premises undergo routine assessments to identify and remove barriers to accessibility.
  • Recommendations for improvements are actioned to ensure ongoing compliance.
• CIW Compliance Checks:
  • Our policies and practices align with CIW regulations and accessibility best practices.
• Continuous Improvement Strategy:
  • Regular policy reviews, resident feedback, and accessibility assessments drive improvements in service provision.

10. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

• CHW07 – Person-Centred Care Policy
• CHW08 – Dignity and Respect Policy
• CHW30 – Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy
• CHW42 – Communication and Engagement with Service Users and Families Policy
• CHW16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, regulatory requirements, or organisational needs. Any updates will be communicated to all staff through training sessions and policy briefings to ensure continued compliance and best practices.

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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.