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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Safe Care and Treatment Policy

1. Purpose

This policy sets out how {{org_field_name}} ensures the provision of safe care and treatment in compliance with Regulation 12 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014. It aims to protect the people we support from avoidable harm, ensuring that care is delivered safely, risks are mitigated effectively, and staff are trained to a high standard. This policy provides guidance on maintaining a safe environment, managing medication safely, preventing and controlling infections, and upholding high standards of health and safety across all care settings.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and contractors providing care or managing services within {{org_field_name}}. It covers all aspects of safe care and treatment, including risk management, medication safety, infection prevention, staff competency, and emergency preparedness.

3. Principles of Safe Care and Treatment

{{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the people we support by adhering to the following principles:

Risk Assessment and Management

• Each person we support has an individualised risk assessment to identify and mitigate potential hazards related to their care and support needs.
• Risk assessments are regularly reviewed and updated in response to changes in the individual’s condition or environment.
• Staff are trained in risk management and are required to report and act upon any identified risks immediately.
• We encourage a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to risk mitigation by identifying trends and implementing preventative measures.

Safe Medication Management

• We follow strict procedures for the safe administration, storage, and disposal of medications to prevent errors and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Staff administering medication are fully trained and assessed for competency before handling medications.
• Regular medication audits are conducted to identify and rectify discrepancies or risks associated with medication management.
• Where possible, people we support are encouraged to manage their own medication, with support provided in line with their care plans and capacity assessments.

Preventing and Controlling Infection

• Infection prevention and control (IPC) measures are strictly adhered to in all care settings, with reference to Public Health England guidance.
• Staff are trained in infection control protocols, including proper hand hygiene, use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and cleaning and decontamination procedures.
• We have clear policies in place for the isolation of infectious individuals where necessary, ensuring that risks are minimised without infringing on individuals’ rights.
• Regular environmental cleaning schedules are in place, with high-touch areas and shared spaces prioritised for disinfection.

Safe Use of Equipment and Premises

• All equipment used in care provision is regularly inspected, maintained, and replaced where necessary to ensure it remains safe and functional.
• Staff are trained to use medical and assistive equipment safely, ensuring it is operated in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions and best practice guidance.
• The premises are routinely inspected to ensure they are safe, secure, and suitable for delivering high-quality care.

Competency and Training of Staff

• All staff are required to undergo mandatory training in areas such as moving and handling, first aid, safeguarding, medication administration, and fire safety.
• Regular refresher training and competency assessments are conducted to ensure staff remain up to date with best practices in safe care and treatment.
• Supervision and appraisal systems are in place to support staff in developing their skills and addressing any areas of concern.

Incident Reporting and Learning from Errors

• A robust incident reporting system is in place to record any safety concerns, near misses, or adverse events.
• All incidents are investigated thoroughly, with findings used to implement learning and improve care practices.
• Staff are encouraged to report concerns without fear of reprisal in a culture of openness and continuous improvement.
• Findings from incident reviews are shared with staff and used to update policies and training as necessary.

Emergency Preparedness and Response

• Emergency plans are in place to deal with a range of potential situations, including fire, medical emergencies, adverse weather conditions, and major incidents.
• Staff receive training in emergency response procedures, including first aid, evacuation protocols, and managing deteriorating health conditions.
• Emergency drills are conducted regularly to ensure staff are prepared and can respond effectively in urgent situations.

Safe Care Planning and Person-Centred Approach

• Care plans are tailored to individual needs, ensuring that risks are considered while promoting autonomy and dignity.
• People we support, their families, and advocates are actively involved in decision-making regarding their care and treatment.
• Regular reviews ensure that care plans remain relevant, effective, and safe, taking into account changes in health or personal circumstances.

4. Roles and Responsibilities

• Registered Manager: Ensures compliance with CQC regulations and oversees the implementation of safe care practices.
• All Staff: Responsible for following safe care procedures, attending training, and reporting concerns or risks.
• Health and Safety Lead: Oversees risk assessments, safety audits, and emergency preparedness.
• Medication Lead: Ensures compliance with medication management protocols and conducts regular medication audits.
• Infection Control Lead: Monitors infection control practices, provides staff training, and ensures adherence to hygiene protocols.

5. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

• SL07 – Person-Centred Care Policy
• SL08 – Dignity and Respect Policy
• SL13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
• SL16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
• SL17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• SL21 – Medication Management and Administration Policy
• SL37 – Moving and Handling Policy

6. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislative changes, CQC requirements, or organisational needs necessitate an update. Any changes will be communicated to all staff to ensure continued compliance with safe care and treatment 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.