DCW97-Staff Induction Training Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Staff Induction Training Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} provides a structured, high-quality induction training programme for all new employees, enabling them to understand their roles, responsibilities, and regulatory requirements while delivering safe, effective, and compassionate care. This policy ensures that all new staff are fully prepared and competent before undertaking their duties, in line with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) regulations and best practices.

This policy ensures compliance with:

The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016 – Requires care providers to ensure staff are adequately trained before providing care.
The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 – Emphasises the importance of a skilled workforce in delivering high-quality care.
Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) Regulations – Mandates that staff receive comprehensive training appropriate to their role.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Requires employers to provide appropriate training for safe working practices.
The All Wales Induction Framework for Health and Social Care (AWIF) – Sets the national standard for staff induction in Wales.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

All new employees, including care workers, support staff, and managers.
Temporary, agency, and bank staff working at {{org_field_name}}.
Supervisors and mentors responsible for inducting new staff.

It covers:

Structure and content of the induction training programme.
Mandatory training modules.
Competency assessment and supervision.
Timescales for induction completion.
Ongoing professional development after induction.

3. Staff Induction Programme Structure

The induction programme at {{org_field_name}} follows a phased approach, ensuring staff gain the necessary knowledge, skills, and confidence before assuming their responsibilities.

3.1 Pre-Employment Checks and Onboarding

Before starting induction, all new employees must:

Provide evidence of completed DBS checks in line with our DBS Checks Policy (DCW44).
Submit proof of qualifications and references.
Sign an employment contract and confidentiality agreement.

3.2 Initial Orientation (Day 1-5)

The first stage of induction includes:

Introduction to {{org_field_name}}’s mission, values, and policies.
Overview of CIW regulations and compliance requirements.
Health and safety briefing, including fire safety and emergency procedures.
Introduction to care plans, documentation, and reporting procedures.
Role-specific responsibilities and expectations.

3.3 Mandatory Induction Training (Week 1-4)

New staff must complete core training modules covering:

Core Induction Training Modules

Person-Centred Care – Understanding individual needs and preferences.
Health and Safety – Risk assessments, manual handling, and workplace safety.
Safeguarding Adults and Children – Identifying and reporting abuse (DCW13).
Medication Management – Safe administration, storage, and record-keeping (DCW21).
Infection Prevention and Control – Hygiene procedures, PPE use, and reducing risks (DCW17).
Confidentiality and GDPR – Handling personal data securely and ethically (DCW34).
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion – Anti-discrimination practices (DCW30).
Dignity and Respect in Care – Supporting service users with compassion (DCW31).
Emergency First Aid – Basic life support, CPR, and responding to medical emergencies (DCW45).

Specialist Training (If Required by Role)

PEG Care and Management – For staff supporting individuals with enteral feeding (DCW47).
Challenging Behaviour and De-escalation – For staff supporting service users with complex needs (DCW46).
Dementia Awareness – Supporting individuals with cognitive impairments.

4. Competency Assessment and Supervision

4.1 Supervised Shadowing Period

New care workers will shadow experienced staff for at least five shifts before providing independent care.
Supervisors will assess practical application of training, including:
- Safe moving and handling techniques.
- Medication administration (if applicable).
- Effective communication with service users and families.

4.2 Induction Progress Reviews

Weekly check-ins with the Registered Manager or designated mentor.
Midway assessment (week 4) to identify learning gaps.
Final assessment at the end of the induction period to determine readiness for independent work.

5. Timescales for Induction Completion

The full induction programme must be completed within 12 weeks.
Staff must not work unsupervised until they demonstrate full competency.
Probation reviews at 6 weeks and 12 weeks will evaluate progress.

6. Ongoing Professional Development After Induction

Annual refresher training is mandatory for core skills.
Staff are encouraged to complete Level 2 or Level 3 Health and Social Care qualifications.
Specialised training is offered based on individual career goals and service user needs.

7. Monitoring and Compliance

The Registered Manager ensures all staff complete induction within the required timeframe.
Training records are maintained and reviewed during audits.
Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) inspections will assess staff training compliance.
Staff feedback is collected to improve the induction process.

8. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy (DCW13).
Health and Safety at Work Policy (DCW16).
Confidentiality and Data Protection (GDPR) Policy (DCW34).
DBS Checks Policy (DCW44).
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy (DCW30).
Medication Management and Administration Policy (DCW21).

9. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required by legislative changes, CIW regulations, or operational needs.

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.