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DC37-Moving and Handling Policy

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Moving and Handling Policy

1. Introduction

At {{org_field_name}}, we are committed to providing high-quality, safe, and dignified care to all our service users. A crucial part of this commitment is ensuring that all moving and handling activities are carried out safely, both for the individuals we support and for our dedicated care staff.

This Moving and Handling Policy sets out our approach to assisting individuals with mobility needs in a way that promotes their dignity, independence, and comfort, while also minimising the risk of injury to our care workers. Our aim is to ensure that every movement is performed safely, correctly, and with the utmost respect for the person receiving care.

Moving and handling tasks are a routine part of domiciliary care, whether it involves assisting someone to sit, stand, walk, transfer between a bed and a chair, or use mobility aids such as hoists and slide sheets. However, if these tasks are not carried out properly, they can lead to serious injuries—not just for our staff but also for the people we care for.

To protect both service users and employees, we strictly adhere to legal and regulatory requirements, which include:

At {{org_field_name}}, we take these responsibilities seriously. By following best practices and ensuring ongoing staff training, we can create a safe, supportive environment where both our team and service users feel confident in the care being provided.

This policy applies to all employees, agency staff, and volunteers involved in moving and handling activities within our domiciliary care service. We expect everyone to comply fully and to always seek guidance if unsure about the safest approach to a moving and handling task.

2. Scope of the Policy

At {{org_field_name}}, we believe that safe and effective moving and handling is everyone’s responsibility. This policy applies to all staff members involved in providing care and support, including:

We recognise that moving and handling is a core aspect of domiciliary care, and it involves much more than simply helping someone move from one position to another. Our policy covers a wide range of activities, including:

Supporting Individuals with Mobility Difficulties

Many of the people we support experience limited mobility due to age, disability, illness, or injury. Our role is to enable them to move as safely and comfortably as possible while promoting their independence. This may include:

Assisting with Personal Care

Providing personal care often involves moving and handling tasks. We are committed to ensuring that these are carried out safely, professionally, and with respect for the individual’s privacy and dignity. This includes:

Moving Equipment and Supplies

In addition to handling individuals, our care team may need to move medical equipment, mobility aids, and other essential supplies. This includes:

Emergency Handling Situations

Despite our best efforts, emergencies can happen, and our staff must be prepared to respond quickly and safely. This policy outlines the procedures for:

3. Principles of Safe Moving and Handling

We believe that how we move and handle the people we care for is just as important as the care we provide. Safe moving and handling is not just about following a set of rules—it’s about treating every individual with dignity, respect, and compassion, ensuring their comfort and safety while also protecting our staff from injury. Our approach is built on the following core principles:

Promoting Dignity and Respect During Handling

We recognise that being moved by someone else can feel unsettling or even distressing for some of our service users, particularly those who are frail, have mobility challenges, or live with cognitive impairments such as dementia. That’s why we always prioritise dignity and respect in every moving and handling task we carry out.

We treat each individual as a person, not just a task—because how we assist them matters just as much as the outcome.

Encouraging Independence While Providing Necessary Support

One of our key goals in domiciliary care is to enable people to do as much for themselves as possible while offering the support they need. We understand that maintaining independence is vital for a person’s self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being.

Even small actions, such as holding onto a rail to support themselves while transferring from a chair to a bed, can help maintain independence and prevent a decline in mobility.

Avoiding Unnecessary Lifting Where Possible

We follow a no-lift policy whenever possible, meaning that we use alternative, safer methods instead of manually lifting a service user without assistance. This approach protects both service users and our staff from unnecessary strain, discomfort, and potential injury.

By reducing manual lifting and using safer alternatives, we lower the risk of injury while making moving and handling a more comfortable experience for the people we support.

Using Approved Techniques and Equipment for Moving and Handling

We take great care to ensure that every movement is carried out correctly, using the right techniques and appropriate equipment. Safe moving and handling is not just about efficiency—it’s about ensuring that every movement protects the health and safety of our service users and staff.

Using the correct techniques and equipment is essential in preventing injuries, reducing discomfort, and making moving and handling a positive experience for everyone involved.

4. Risk Assessment and Planning

Safe and effective moving and handling starts with thorough risk assessment and careful planning. Every individual we support has unique needs, preferences, and physical abilities, which is why a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work. Instead, we take the time to understand each person’s situation, assess potential risks, and create personalised moving and handling plans that prioritise safety, comfort, and independence.

Individual Risk Assessment for Each Service User

Every service user in our care receives a detailed, person-centred risk assessment to determine the safest way to assist them with movement and mobility. We understand that each person’s needs can change over time, whether due to illness, injury, surgery, or changes in mobility, so we continually assess and adapt our approach to ensure their safety.

By carrying out thorough risk assessments, we can prevent injuries, avoid unnecessary discomfort, and promote safe mobility for everyone we support.

Assessment of Environmental Hazards

While we can train our staff and use the best techniques, we also need to ensure that the service user’s home environment is as safe as possible. Many moving and handling risks come from hazards within the home, such as:

As part of our risk assessment process, we inspect and evaluate the service user’s home environment to identify and eliminate hazards.

By proactively addressing environmental risks, we reduce the likelihood of falls, injuries, and unsafe movements.

Reviewing and Updating Care Plans Regularly

We know that a person’s mobility can change over time, which is why we don’t just complete a risk assessment once and forget about it. Instead, we take a dynamic approach, ensuring that care plans are reviewed and updated regularly to reflect any changes in a service user’s health, mobility, or personal preferences.

By keeping our care plans up to date, we ensure that our moving and handling practices remain safe, appropriate, and tailored to the individual’s current needs.

A Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Safe Moving and Handling

We believe that good care is never delivered in isolation. To ensure the safest and most effective moving and handling, we take a collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach, working closely with:

5. Safe Handling Techniques

At {{org_field_name}}, we believe that every movement matters. How we assist a service user with standing, sitting, or repositioning directly impacts their comfort, safety, and dignity, as well as the well-being of our care team. That’s why we prioritise safe, effective, and respectful moving and handling techniques.

We don’t just follow guidelines—we put people first, ensuring that every transfer or movement is done with care, confidence, and skill. Below are the key techniques we use to provide safe and compassionate handling for both our service users and staff.

Correct Posture and Positioning

We know that proper posture and body mechanics are essential for preventing injury and strain, not only for our service users but also for our care team. That’s why we train and remind our staff to:

By following these simple but essential principles, we not only protect our own bodies but also ensure gentle, controlled, and safe movements for those in our care.

Use of Proper Manual Handling Aids and Equipment

We believe that the right tools make all the difference. That’s why we prioritise the correct use of manual handling aids to make transfers safer and more comfortable for everyone.

We use a range of equipment, including:

We train our staff thoroughly on how to use this equipment correctly. Every piece of equipment must be checked and maintained regularly to ensure it is safe and in good working order. If a piece of equipment feels unsafe, faulty, or inappropriate, we report and replace it immediately.

Our rule is simple: If an aid can make a transfer safer and more comfortable, we use it!

Techniques for Assisted Standing, Sitting, and Repositioning

Every service user is different—some need minimal support, while others require full assistance. Regardless of their needs, we ensure that every movement is safe, comfortable, and stress-free.

Assisting with Standing Up:

Helping Someone Sit Down:

Repositioning in Bed or Chair:

We always assess the individual’s mobility and ability before any movement—because the safest way to assist one person may not be suitable for another.

Avoiding Hazardous Lifts

At {{org_field_name}}, we have a strict no single-person lifting policy for individuals who cannot support themselves.

We avoid:
Single-handed lifting of a service user without proper equipment.
Lifting a person under their arms—this can cause serious injury.
Using outdated or unsafe techniques that could harm either the service user or the caregiver.

If two-person assistance or equipment is required, we use it—no exceptions.

Communication and Verbal Cues to Service Users

Moving and handling should never be something we do to a service user—it should be something we do with them. Clear communication is key to making the experience comfortable and reassuring.

We also listen. If a service user expresses pain, discomfort, or fear, we pause, reassess, and adjust our approach to make them feel more at ease.

6. Equipment Use and Maintenance

At {{org_field_name}}, we understand that safe and effective moving and handling often require the use of appropriate mobility aids and equipment. While we do not directly supply, own, or maintain such equipment in a domiciliary care setting, we play a crucial role in ensuring service users have access to the right equipment and know how to use it safely.

Our responsibility is to assess the need for mobility aids, support service users in using them correctly, and liaise with the relevant professionals to ensure equipment is available and maintained by the appropriate agencies.

Referral for Mobility Equipment

If a service user requires specialist mobility aids or lifting equipment, we will:

For private clients, we can:

Supporting Safe Equipment Use

While we do not provide or maintain equipment, our role is to ensure that service users know how to use their mobility aids safely. This includes:

Reporting Defective or Unsafe Equipment

If we encounter faulty or unsafe mobility equipment, we take immediate action by:

We never attempt to repair or modify mobility equipment ourselves, as this falls under the responsibility of the supplier or relevant healthcare service.

7. Staff Training and Competency

Moving and handling is a crucial part of our work, and if not done correctly, it can lead to serious injuries for both service users and caregivers. That’s why we prioritise comprehensive training and ongoing competency assessments, ensuring that every member of our team feels confident, skilled, and fully equipped to carry out moving and handling tasks safely and professionally.

We don’t just meet the minimum training requirements—we go above and beyond to ensure our team has the knowledge, skills, and confidence to deliver exceptional care.

Mandatory Moving and Handling Training for All Care Staff

From day one, every member of our care team undergoes mandatory moving and handling training as part of their induction. We ensure that new staff understand not just the techniques, but also the importance of dignity, respect, and communication when assisting service users with mobility.

Our training covers:
Safe manual handling techniques to prevent injury to both service users and staff.
Correct posture and positioning when lifting, transferring, and supporting individuals.
How to use moving and handling aids such as hoists, transfer belts, and slide sheets.
Understanding risk assessments and how to adapt techniques based on individual needs.
How to communicate effectively with service users to ensure they feel comfortable and in control during any movement.
What to do in emergency situations, including how to assist a service user safely after a fall.

Our goal is to ensure that every carer leaves their training fully prepared and confident in their ability to assist with mobility safely and respectfully.

Refresher Training at Least Annually

Moving and handling techniques evolve over time, and we want to ensure that our staff stay up to date with the latest best practices. That’s why we require annual refresher training for all care workers, even those who have years of experience.

We use these sessions to:

If a staff member feels they need additional support, we offer one-to-one coaching to help them feel more confident and competent. We never leave our staff to struggle alone—we support them every step of the way.

8. Assessing Staff Competency Through Supervision and Observation

Training alone is not enough—we also need to see that staff are putting their skills into practice safely and effectively. That’s why we conduct regular competency assessments through:

On-the-job supervision – Senior carers or managers observe staff in real care situations to ensure they are using correct techniques and following procedures.
Practical assessments – We test staff on various moving and handling scenarios, ensuring they can apply their knowledge correctly.
Feedback and coaching – If an issue is spotted, we provide constructive feedback and additional support to help staff improve.
Service user feedback – We encourage service users to share their experiences, letting us know if they feel safe, comfortable, and respected during transfers and movements.

If a team member is struggling with a particular technique, we don’t criticise—we train, support, and guide them until they feel confident.

Training on Safe Use of Mechanical Aids

Many of our service users rely on mobility aids and lifting equipment to move safely and comfortably. It’s essential that our staff know how to use this equipment properly to prevent injuries and ensure a smooth, dignified experience for the person receiving care.

Our mechanical aids training includes:
Hoist training – Staff learn how to safely operate ceiling track hoists, mobile hoists, and standing aids, ensuring smooth and comfortable transfers.
Sling selection and fitting – Understanding how to choose the correct size and type of sling for each service user to prevent discomfort or injury.
Slide sheets and transfer boards – Learning techniques to minimise strain and reduce friction when repositioning individuals.
Handling belts and turntables – Practicing safe standing and pivoting movements to help service users transition between positions without unnecessary lifting.
Wheelchair and walking aid support – Ensuring that service users are using their mobility aids correctly and safely.

We also cover what to do if equipment fails or malfunctions, ensuring staff know how to respond quickly and safely in unexpected situations.

9. Emergency Situations

Emergencies can happen at any time, no matter how carefully we plan and assess risks. As a domiciliary care provider, we are often the first point of contact when a service user experiences a fall or other emergency, so it is crucial that we remain calm, confident, and well-prepared to handle such situations safely and professionally.

Our top priorities in an emergency are to:
Keep the service user safe and comfortable
Avoid causing further harm or injury
Seek the appropriate medical help when necessary
Report and document the incident correctly

We understand that how we respond in the first moments of an emergency can make all the difference—not just in preventing harm, but also in reassuring and supporting the service user during a stressful situation.

Handling Falls and Assisting Without Causing Harm

Falls are one of the most common emergencies in domiciliary care, particularly for our elderly and mobility-impaired service users. We never rush to lift someone up immediately after a fall, as this could cause further injury. Instead, we follow a step-by-step approach to assess and assist safely:

If a service user falls, we will:

Stay calm and offer reassurance – We let the person know that we are there to help and that they should try to stay still until we assess the situation.
Check for injuries – We ask if they feel pain, dizziness, or discomfort and visually check for bruises, swelling, or bleeding.
Encourage slow movements – If they are alert and not seriously injured, we guide them to move slowly, ensuring they don’t rush to get up.
Use the correct technique for assistance – If the person can get up safely and independently, we support them using their own strength and mobility aids where possible. We never lift them manually without proper support equipment.
Seek medical attention if needed – If there is any sign of serious injury, dizziness, or confusion, we will call 999 or 112 and keep the service user as comfortable as possible while waiting for help.

If a service user cannot get up on their own, we will:

We always document any falls in the service user’s records and inform their family, social worker, or GP as necessary.

Emergency Lifting Procedures

As a domiciliary care provider, we do not perform manual lifting of fallen service users unless we are using appropriate equipment and techniques.

If a service user has fallen but is alert and uninjured, we may assist them in getting up gradually using a safe method such as:

We will never attempt to lift a person from the floor alone, as this poses a serious risk to both the service user and ourselves. Instead, we will:

If an emergency lifting aid (such as a Raizer chair or inflatable lifting cushion) is available, we ensure that:

When to Seek Emergency Medical Assistance

We are not medical professionals, but we are trained to recognise signs that indicate the need for emergency medical attention.

We will call 999 immediately if a service user:
Has suffered a serious fall with a suspected fracture or head injury.
Is experiencing severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or sudden weakness (possible stroke or heart attack).
Has lost consciousness, is disoriented, or showing signs of a seizure.
Has uncontrolled bleeding that we cannot stop with pressure.
Has a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) with swelling or difficulty breathing.
Has a suspected infection with signs of confusion, high fever, or extreme drowsiness (possible sepsis).

If we are unsure but concerned, we will call NHS 111 for advice or seek guidance from the service user’s GP or next of kin.

We will always stay with the service user until help arrives and provide updates to their family as necessary.

Reporting and Recording Incidents and Near Misses

Every emergency situation must be properly documented, even if no injury occurred. This helps us to:
Identify patterns or recurring risks.
Improve care plans and risk assessments.
Demonstrate compliance with CQC regulations.
Provide accurate information to healthcare professionals and family members.

For any falls, medical emergencies, or other incidents, we will:

By maintaining accurate and transparent records, we ensure that service users receive the best possible care and that our team continuously improves safety standards.

10. Reporting and Record-Keeping

At {{org_field_name}}, we understand that accurate and detailed reporting is the backbone of safe, high-quality, and person-centred care. Keeping clear records allows us to track changes in a service user’s needs, identify risks early, and provide the best possible support.

We don’t just record information because it’s required—we do it because it keeps people safe. Every piece of documentation, whether it’s a risk assessment, an incident report, or a care plan update, helps us deliver the high standard of care we are committed to providing.

Beyond just meeting legal and regulatory obligations, good record-keeping protects our service users, our care team, and our business by ensuring that every action taken is transparent, accountable, and well-documented.

Documenting Risk Assessments and Care Plans

Each service user is unique, and their needs can change over time. This is why we ensure that risk assessments and care plans are always up to date and reflect the most current information about their mobility, health, and support needs.

Risk Assessments:

Care Plans:

We take the time to ensure that care plans are not just written documents—they are working tools that guide our team in providing safe, effective, and personalised care every day.

Recording Incidents, Injuries, or Equipment Failures

We know that even with the best precautions, incidents can still happen. Whether it’s a fall, a minor injury, or an issue with a mobility aid, how we respond and document the event can make a big difference in preventing further harm.

When We Record an Incident:

How We Document It:

Reporting Equipment Issues:

By keeping accurate records, we ensure that our service users receive the safest possible care and that our team has the information they need to prevent future risks.

Compliance with Regulation 17 – Good Governance

Under Regulation 17, we must have effective systems in place to:
Monitor and continuously improve the quality of care.
Identify, assess, and mitigate risks that may affect service users.
Maintain secure, accurate, and up-to-date records.
Act on feedback and incidents to improve our services​.

To ensure compliance, we:
Ensure all care staff are trained in proper documentation procedures.
Regularly review and audit records to check for gaps or inaccuracies.
Analyse trends from incident reports to identify areas for improvement.
Encourage open communication—if a team member is unsure about documentation, we provide support and training.

Good governance is about more than just meeting CQC requirements—it’s about making sure our service users receive the best possible care, backed by clear and accountable record-keeping.

Reporting Serious Injuries to CQC as per Regulation 18

Certain incidents must be reported to the Care Quality Commission (CQC) under Regulation 18 – Notification of Other Incidents​.

We must notify CQC without delay if a service user experiences:
A serious injury, such as a fracture, loss of consciousness, severe burns, or significant head trauma.
An incident requiring urgent medical treatment to prevent life-threatening consequences.
An unexpected deterioration in health that results in emergency intervention.
 An allegation of abuse, neglect, or improper treatment requiring investigation.

How We Handle CQC Notifications:

By ensuring that serious incidents are reported and investigated properly, we demonstrate our commitment to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement.

11. Monitoring and Policy Review

Updating the Policy Annually or as Regulations Change

Policies are not set in stone. As regulations evolve, so do we. That’s why we review and update our Moving and Handling Policy at least once a year—or sooner if there are significant changes in CQC regulations, best practices, or industry guidance.

When We Update Our Policy:
✔ If new legislation or CQC guidelines require changes to our procedures.
✔ If audits, incidents, or feedback highlight areas for improvement.
✔ If new equipment or technology becomes available that enhances moving and handling safety.
✔ If service user needs change, requiring us to adapt our approach. Every update is clearly communicated to our care team, ensuring that everyone understands and follows the latest best practices.

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.

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