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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Prevention of Falls and Injury Policy

1. Purpose

At {{org_field_name}}, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our service users by minimising the risk of falls and injuries in their homes. Falls can have a significant impact on a person’s health, confidence, and independence, and we recognise the importance of proactive prevention to enhance quality of life.

This policy serves to:

• Prevent falls and injuries by implementing effective risk management strategies tailored to each service user’s needs.
• Ensure compliance with CQC regulations, the Health and Social Care Act 2008, and best practices in falls prevention, reinforcing our commitment to delivering safe and high-quality domiciliary care services.
• Promote independence and dignity by supporting service users to maintain safe mobility in their own homes while empowering them to engage in daily activities confidently.
• Equip our staff with the necessary knowledge and tools to assess risks, implement preventative measures, and respond effectively if a fall occurs.
• Enhance communication with service users, families, and healthcare professionals, ensuring a collaborative approach to fall prevention.

At {{org_field_name}}, we believe that every service user has the right to feel safe in their own home, and through this policy, we aim to proactively reduce risks while promoting confidence, mobility, and overall well-being.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all service users supported by {{org_field_name}} who may be at risk of falls due to:

• Age-related mobility issues (e.g., frailty, reduced strength, or balance difficulties).
• Medical conditions that impact stability, coordination, or cognitive awareness (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, dementia, stroke recovery, arthritis).
• Medication side effects that increase the risk of dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure.
• Environmental hazards within the home, such as loose carpets, poor lighting, cluttered walkways, or unsafe furniture arrangements.

This policy also applies to all staff members, including:

• Care workers, managers, agency staff, and volunteers who provide direct support to service users at home.
• Supervisory and management teams responsible for overseeing fall prevention strategies and ensuring that risk assessments are properly conducted.
• Training coordinators who equip staff with the skills and knowledge to effectively prevent, identify, and respond to falls.

What This Policy Covers

This policy outlines:

• Comprehensive fall prevention strategies that take a person-centred approach to maintaining safety while preserving independence.
• Risk assessment procedures to identify hazards, monitor changes in mobility, and implement home modifications where necessary.
• Staff training and development to ensure all team members have the competence and confidence to support service users effectively.
• Incident response procedures, ensuring that in the event of a fall, the appropriate actions are taken to minimise harm and support recovery.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

At {{org_field_name}}, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of safety, quality, and compliance in our fall prevention strategies. Our approach aligns with national regulations and legislation that govern safe care delivery and ensure that all service users receive dignified, person-centred support that minimises risks while promoting well-being.

This policy is structured in accordance with the following legal and regulatory frameworks:

Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014

• Regulation 9 – Person-Centred Care
  • Falls prevention at {{org_field_name}} is not a one-size-fits-all approach. We ensure that support is tailored to each service user’s unique needs, mobility levels, and home environment, allowing them to maintain independence safely.
• Regulation 12 – Safe Care and Treatment
  • As part of our commitment to safe and high-quality care, we assess risks related to mobility, medication side effects, and home hazards, implementing preventative measures such as mobility aids, home adaptations, and exercise plans.
• Regulation 17 – Good Governance
  • We maintain accurate, up-to-date records of risk assessments, fall incidents, and care interventions to continuously improve our practices. Regular audits ensure that our policies remain effective and aligned with best practice guidelines.
• Regulation 13 – Safeguarding from Abuse and Improper Treatment
  • We ensure that all service users are protected from neglect, unsafe environments, and unnecessary restrictions. Our team is trained to identify signs of mobility deterioration or safety concerns and take swift action to prevent harm.

The Care Act 2014

• {{org_field_name}} recognises that preventing falls is a fundamental part of preventing care needs from worsening. By identifying risks early, we can help service users maintain their mobility, safety, and well-being in their own homes for as long as possible.

Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992

• Our staff receive training in safe moving and handling techniques to prevent injury when assisting service users. Whether supporting someone to stand, walk, or transfer safely, we ensure that all assistance is delivered with skill, care, and dignity.

The Equality Act 2010

• We are committed to ensuring that all service users, including those with disabilities or mobility impairments, receive appropriate support and adjustments. Our fall prevention measures are designed to be inclusive and adaptable, ensuring that everyone can move around their home safely and with confidence.

By following these legal and regulatory standards, {{org_field_name}} ensures that fall prevention is not only a priority but a fundamental part of delivering high-quality, person-centred domiciliary care.

4. Principles

At {{org_field_name}}, we believe that fall prevention is about more than just avoiding accidents—it’s about enhancing confidence, independence, and quality of life for our service users. Our approach is guided by the following core principles:

4.1 Safety First

• Preventing falls is a top priority in every aspect of our care.
• Our team conducts comprehensive risk assessments to identify hazards and take proactive measures to minimise risks.
• We ensure that mobility aids, home adaptations, and safe movement techniques are in place for each service user.

4.2 Person-Centred Approach

• No two service users are the same. At {{org_field_name}}, we tailor all fall prevention strategies to individual needs, preferences, and home environments.
• We consider factors such as medical conditions, mobility levels, lifestyle, and personal choices when implementing fall prevention plans.

4.3 Promoting Independence

• Our goal is to empower service users, not restrict them.
• We encourage safe, supported movement and promote exercise, physiotherapy, and mobility aids to help service users maintain strength and confidence.
• Home adaptations are designed to enhance independence rather than limit movement.

4.4 Dignity and Respect

• Service users should feel comfortable, respected, and in control of their own environment.
• We ensure that fall prevention measures are discreet, non-intrusive, and sensitive to personal preferences.
• Support is always delivered in a compassionate and dignified manner.

4.5 Training and Awareness

• All {{org_field_name}} staff receive specialist training in falls prevention, risk assessment, and emergency response.
• Our team is equipped with the knowledge and skills to identify early warning signs of mobility decline, balance issues, or home safety concerns.
• Ongoing professional development and refresher training ensure that our staff remain competent and confident in fall prevention strategies.

5. Identifying and Assessing Risks

We take a proactive approach to identifying and assessing risks associated with falls. Our aim is to detect potential hazards early, enabling us to implement effective preventative measures and support service users in maintaining safe mobility in their homes.

Initial Risk Assessments

Before beginning care with {{org_field_name}}, every service user undergoes a detailed falls risk assessment as part of their initial care plan assessment. This assessment allows us to identify factors that may increase the risk of falls and put preventative measures in place from day one.

During the initial assessment, we consider:

• Medical conditions that may affect balance, mobility, or coordination (e.g., arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, stroke recovery).
• Medication side effects that could cause dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure, increasing the risk of a fall.
• Mobility levels, including the ability to walk independently, use mobility aids, or perform daily activities safely.
• Environmental hazards within the home that could contribute to falls, such as loose carpets, poor lighting, cluttered spaces, or slippery flooring.

Following this assessment, a personalised fall prevention plan is developed to address identified risks and support the service user in maintaining a safe living environment.

Ongoing Risk Monitoring

Falls risk is not static—it can change over time due to age-related decline, health conditions, or new medications. At {{org_field_name}}, we conduct regular risk reviews to ensure our support remains responsive to our service users’ evolving needs.

Our approach includes:

• Routine mobility checks to monitor changes in strength, balance, and walking ability.
• Regular communication with healthcare professionals, including GPs and physiotherapists, to adjust fall prevention strategies based on new medical advice.
• Ongoing medication reviews to identify new or increased side effects that may contribute to falls.
• Home environment reassessments whenever a service user’s condition changes to ensure continued safety.

If any significant changes are identified, we update the service user’s care plan immediately, ensuring that our fall prevention measures remain effective, relevant, and person-centred.

Environmental Risk Assessments

At {{org_field_name}}, we recognise that many falls occur due to preventable environmental hazards within the home. As part of our safety-first approach, we conduct environmental risk assessments to ensure service users’ homes are as safe as possible.

Key areas of focus include:

• Identifying trip hazards, such as:
  • Loose rugs, trailing wires, or uneven flooring.
  • Poorly lit stairways or hallways.
  • Cluttered walkways or unstable furniture.
• Recommending home modifications, including:
  • Installation of grab rails in bathrooms, hallways, and stairways.
  • Placement of non-slip flooring or mats in high-risk areas.
  • Improvements in lighting, particularly in bedrooms, staircases, and bathrooms.

These assessments are reviewed and updated regularly to ensure that service users’ homes remain as safe and fall-proof as possible.

6. Preventative Measures

We  believe that preventing falls is more than just reducing risk—it’s about promoting confidence and independence. Our preventative measures are personalised to each service user, ensuring that they can continue to live safely and comfortably at home.

Personalised Fall Prevention Plans

We understand that every service user has unique mobility needs, which is why our approach to fall prevention is fully tailored.

Each service user’s fall prevention plan includes:

• Encouraging safe mobility practices, such as reminding service users to use mobility aids properly and avoid standing up too quickly.
• Providing appropriate mobility aids, including:
  • Walkers, walking sticks, or frames.
  • Handrails along hallways and staircases.
  • Raised toilet seats or bath seats where needed.
• Adjusting the home environment to ensure easy movement and reduce fall risks.

By taking a holistic and individualised approach, we empower service users to move with confidence while reducing their risk of injury.

Home Safety Modifications

At {{org_field_name}}, we work closely with service users and their families to implement small changes that make a big difference in fall prevention.

Some of the key home safety modifications we recommend include:

• Ensuring good lighting to improve visibility, especially in hallways, staircases, and bathrooms.
• Securing loose rugs and carpets or removing them entirely if they present a trip hazard.
• Decluttering walkways to provide clear, unobstructed paths around the home.
• Installing grab rails and handrails in high-risk areas, such as near toilets, bathtubs, and staircases.

Even simple adjustments like moving furniture to create safer walking paths can significantly reduce fall risks while maintaining a comfortable and familiar home environment.

Medication Review

Some medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or impaired balance, increasing the risk of falls. At {{org_field_name}}, we take a collaborative approach to medication management by working alongside GPs, pharmacists, and healthcare professionals to ensure:

• Regular medication reviews are conducted for service users, particularly those on multiple prescriptions.
• Medication side effects are closely monitored, and alternative options are considered where appropriate.
• Service users are provided with clear guidance on taking medications safely to avoid side effects that may contribute to falls.

If a medication is identified as a fall risk factor, we work with the relevant healthcare professionals to explore safer alternatives while ensuring that the service user’s health conditions remain well-managed.

Exercise and Strengthening

Falls often result from reduced strength, balance, and coordination. We encourage service users to participate in simple, low-impact exercises that help maintain:

• Leg strength and stability to support safe movement.
• Balance and coordination to reduce the risk of losing footing.
• Flexibility and mobility to make daily movements easier and safer.

Where appropriate, we:

• Encourage physiotherapy sessions to aid mobility and fall prevention.
• Recommend home-based exercises that focus on balance and strength.
• Support gentle movement activities, such as chair-based exercises or supervised walking routines.

Even small amounts of daily activity can have a significant impact on maintaining strength and reducing fall risks.

Footwear and Clothing

At {{org_field_name}}, we understand that inappropriate footwear or clothing can increase fall risks. We guide service users on safe choices, such as:

• Wearing well-fitted, non-slip footwear with proper grip and support.
• Avoiding long, loose clothing that could become a tripping hazard.
• Using slippers with secure fastenings, rather than loose-fitting options.

Simple adjustments in daily dressing habits can make a big difference in reducing the likelihood of trips and falls.

7. Responding to Falls

At {{org_field_name}}, we understand that a fall can be a distressing experience for both the service user and their loved ones. Our priority is to ensure a prompt, safe, and compassionate response that minimises harm and provides the necessary support to aid recovery.

Our falls response protocol ensures that:

• Service users receive immediate care and support following a fall.
• All incidents are thoroughly assessed and documented to identify risk factors and prevent future falls.
• Communication with families and healthcare professionals is prioritised to ensure service users receive the best possible follow-up care.

Immediate Response

When a fall occurs, our first priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of the service user. All staff at {{org_field_name}} are trained to respond to falls with calmness, confidence, and professionalism.

Step 1: Check for Injuries and Assess the Situation

• Approach the service user calmly and provide reassurance.
• Check for signs of injury, including:
  • Bleeding, swelling, or visible wounds.
  • Pain or difficulty moving limbs, which may indicate a fracture.
  • Confusion, dizziness, or loss of consciousness, which could suggest a head injury or underlying medical issue.

Step 2: Emergency Response (Calling 999 or 112)

• Call emergency services immediately if the service user:
  • Has hit their head or lost consciousness.
  • Has severe pain or an obvious fracture.
  • Has difficulty breathing or signs of shock.
  • Is unable to move safely without risk of further injury.
• While waiting for paramedics to arrive, continue to monitor vital signs and provide reassurance.

Step 3: Supporting the Service User to Regain Balance Safely

• If there are no serious injuries, assist the service user in getting up safely:
  • Encourage them to move slowly and assess their balance.
  • Use proper manual handling techniques to provide support.
  • Allow them to sit down in a stable chair before attempting to stand fully.
• If they cannot get up safely, make them comfortable and wait for further assistance.

By acting swiftly and following correct procedures, we ensure that service users receive appropriate care while reducing the risk of further harm.

Post-Fall Assessment

Once the immediate situation has been addressed, it is critical to investigate the cause of the fall to prevent future incidents. At {{org_field_name}}, we follow a structured approach to post-fall assessment and care planning.

Reporting the Incident

• All falls must be immediately reported to management.
• A detailed incident report must be completed, including:
  • Time, location, and circumstances of the fall.
  • Any injuries sustained and how they were treated.
  • Observations about the service user’s condition before and after the fall.
  • Actions taken by staff and whether emergency services were involved.

Where to report:

1) Verbally to the Registered Manager or Safeguarding Lead

2) Inform the Registered Manager by email: {{org_field_registered_manager_email}}

3) Call the office and inform the Registered Manager or Safeguarding Lead: {{org_field_phone_no}}

4) Out of hours phone number: {{out_of_hours}}

Identifying Causes and Risk Factors

After each fall, we conduct a thorough review to identify contributing factors. This includes assessing:

• Environmental risks:
  • Was the floor wet or cluttered?
  • Was there poor lighting or a lack of support rails?
• Medical factors:
  • Did a medication cause dizziness or drowsiness?
  • Is the service user experiencing balance or mobility decline?
• Behavioural factors:
  • Was the service user rushing, unsteady, or attempting to reach something unsafely?

Our goal is to understand why the fall happened and take preventative steps to reduce the risk of it occurring again.

Reviewing Mobility Aids, Medication, and Home Environment

Following a fall, we reassess:

• Mobility aids:
  • Are they being used correctly?
  • Do they need adjusting or replacing?
• Medications:
  • Should the GP or pharmacist review prescriptions for side effects like dizziness?
• Home environment:
  • Do any modifications need to be made (e.g., grab rails, anti-slip mats, better lighting)?

By making these adjustments promptly, we help service users regain confidence and reduce future risks.

Family and GP Communication

At {{org_field_name}}, we believe that open communication is key to ensuring the best possible care following a fall.

Informing Family Members and Healthcare Professionals

• If a service user experiences a fall, their next of kin must be informed as soon as possible.
• If medical attention was required, we ensure that the service user’s GP or healthcare team is notified for follow-up care.
• Any ongoing concerns about mobility, medication, or environmental risks will be shared with relevant professionals to ensure comprehensive support.

Seeking Medical Review for Recurrent Falls

• If falls become frequent, we work with the GP, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist to:
  • Conduct a full health review.
  • Adjust medications, exercise plans, or mobility aids.
  • Explore specialist interventions to support mobility and strength.

By coordinating care and keeping families informed, we ensure that service users receive the best possible follow-up care and prevention strategies.

8. Staff Training and Responsibilities

At {{org_field_name}}, we recognise that preventing falls starts with knowledgeable, well-trained staff. Our commitment to continuous learning and accountability ensures that every team member is equipped with the skills and confidence to prevent, manage, and respond to falls effectively.

Training in Falls Prevention

To maintain the highest safety standards, all {{org_field_name}} staff—whether permanent, agency, or voluntary—must complete specialist training in fall prevention. This ensures that we can proactively minimise risks while promoting safe mobility and independence for our service users.

Mandatory Training Covers:

Risk assessment techniques – Identifying service users at risk of falls and assessing environmental hazards.
Safe moving and handling procedures – Ensuring staff can assist service users without causing harm to themselves or others.
Recognising fall hazards – Identifying trip risks, medication side effects, and early signs of reduced mobility.
 Emergency response protocols – Understanding what to do if a service user falls, including first aid, calling for help, and proper documentation.

All staff must complete falls prevention training during induction and attend refresher sessions annually to stay updated on best practices, policy changes, and new safety techniques.

Specialist training may also be provided for staff supporting service users with complex mobility needs (e.g., those requiring hoists, wheelchair transfers, or advanced physiotherapy support).

Accountability and Monitoring

At {{org_field_name}}, we believe that fall prevention is a shared responsibility. Every member of our team—from frontline care staff to management—plays a crucial role in maintaining safe, high-quality support.

Care Staff Responsibilities:

Monitor changes in mobility, balance, and confidence levels in service users.
Report any concerns about increased fall risks (e.g., dizziness, unsteadiness, medication side effects).
Ensure all fall prevention measures in the care plan are followed correctly.
Encourage safe practices, such as appropriate footwear, mobility aid use, and good hydration.

Manager Responsibilities:

Ensure risk assessments are regularly reviewed and updated.
Oversee training compliance, ensuring all staff are up to date with falls prevention protocols.
Conduct audits and policy reviews to ensure all fall prevention strategies align with CQC regulations and best practices.
Support staff in escalating serious concerns about fall risks, environmental hazards, or recurring incidents.

By fostering a culture of accountability, {{org_field_name}} ensures that every team member contributes to a safer, fall-free environment for our service users.

9. Consent and Record Keeping

At {{org_field_name}}, we understand that fall prevention measures must always respect service users’ rights, choices, and dignity. We prioritise informed consent, accurate documentation, and proactive care plan reviews to ensure that all actions taken align with best interests and legal requirements.

Informed Consent

• Service users (or their legal representatives) must provide informed consent before any risk assessments or home modifications take place.
• This includes:
  • Agreeing to risk assessments to evaluate potential fall hazards.
  • Approving home adaptations, such as installing grab rails, anti-slip flooring, or mobility aids.
  • Acknowledging recommendations for physiotherapy, exercise plans, or changes to medication that may impact mobility.
• If a service user lacks capacity to make decisions regarding fall prevention, we follow the Mental Capacity Act 2005 to ensure decisions are made in their best interests, involving family members, legal representatives, or healthcare professionals when necessary.

At {{org_field_name}}, we believe that service users should remain in control of their care—we work with them, not just for them, to make their homes safer while preserving their autonomy and independence.

Documentation

Maintaining clear, accurate, and up-to-date records is essential for effective falls prevention and regulatory compliance.

Records We Maintain:

Risk assessments – A full evaluation of individual fall risks completed during initial care planning and reviewed regularly.
Falls prevention interventions – Details of measures put in place to prevent falls, including home modifications, physiotherapy, and medication reviews.
Incident reports – If a fall occurs, a detailed report is completed outlining:

• Time, date, and location of the fall.
• Possible causes (e.g., dizziness, trip hazard, loss of balance).
• Immediate actions taken (e.g., emergency response, first aid).
• Recommendations for preventing future falls.
  ✔Communication logs – Records of discussions with families, GPs, and other healthcare professionals regarding fall risks and prevention strategies.

At {{org_field_name}}, we treat documentation as more than just a compliance requirement—it’s an essential tool that helps us deliver safer, more responsive care.

Reviewing and Updating Care Plans

Falls risk is not static—it can increase or decrease over time based on:

• Changes in health and mobility.
• New medications that impact balance.
• Adjustments to the home environment.

To ensure that fall prevention measures remain effective and relevant, care plans must be:
Reviewed at least every six months, or sooner if significant changes occur.
Updated immediately after a fall, with revised interventions to prevent reoccurrence.
Communicated clearly to staff, family members, and healthcare professionals.

By maintaining dynamic, up-to-date care plans, {{org_field_name}} ensures that service users receive the right support at the right time, reducing fall risks while promoting safety and independence.

10. Complaints and Feedback

• Raising Concerns:
  • Service users, families, or staff can report concerns about fall prevention measures.
• Incident Investigation:
  • Any complaints or fall-related incidents will be investigated in line with Regulation 16 – Receiving and Acting on Complaints.
• Service Improvement:
  • Feedback should be used to improve safety protocols and training.

For more details about raising complaints please see “Receiving and Acting on Complaints Policy”

11. Policy Review and Continuous Improvement

• This policy will be reviewed annually or whenever there are significant changes in legislation or best practices.
• Falls incidents should be monitored and analysed to identify trends and improve prevention strategies.

The policy should be updated based on feedback from staff, service users, and healthcare professionals.

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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.