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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Death of a Service User Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide clear and structured guidance for staff on the actions to take in the event of the death of a service user within {{org_field_name}}. This policy ensures compliance with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) regulations, the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, and other relevant legislation. It aims to ensure dignity and respect for the deceased while managing the situation in a professional, sensitive, and lawful manner.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, managers, healthcare professionals, and external agencies involved in the management of the death of a service user in {{org_field_name}}’s care. It covers:

• Immediate actions following a death
• Reporting procedures
• Support for families, staff, and other service users
• Legal and regulatory compliance
• Record-keeping and review

3. Related Policies

• Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy (SL13)
• Dignity and Respect Policy (SL08)
• Mental Capacity and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards Policy (SL39)
• Incident Reporting and Management Policy (SL24)
• Confidentiality and Data Protection (GDPR) Policy (SL34)
• Whistleblowing (Speaking Up) Policy (SL29)

4. Policy Statement

{{org_field_name}} is committed to ensuring that the death of any service user is managed with compassion, dignity, and professionalism. All deaths must be handled in accordance with CQC regulations, local authority requirements, and legal obligations. Staff must act promptly, respectfully, and in a way that minimises distress to families and other service users.

5. Immediate Actions Following a Death

5.1 Recognising and Confirming Death

• If a staff member finds a service user unresponsive, they must immediately attempt to confirm responsiveness.
• If the service user has an advance care plan (ACP) or Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR) order, staff must follow the recorded instructions.
• If no DNAR exists, staff trained in basic life support (BLS) should attempt CPR and call 999 for emergency assistance.
• If emergency services confirm the death, staff must record the time of death and the name of the verifying professional.

5.2 Notifying the Appropriate Authorities

• Expected Deaths (e.g., terminal illness or palliative care):
  • Notify the GP or healthcare professional overseeing care.
  • Notify the Next of Kin (NoK) or legal representative.
  • Record details in the individual’s care records.
• Unexpected or Suspicious Deaths:
  • Call 999 and follow emergency service instructions.
  • Do not move the body unless advised by emergency personnel.
  • Notify the Police and Coroner (if required).
  • Inform the Registered Manager and local safeguarding team.

6. Reporting the Death

6.1 Internal Reporting

• Staff must immediately inform the Registered Manager or senior on-call staff.
• A detailed incident report must be completed, documenting:
  • Circumstances leading up to the death.
  • Actions taken, including medical interventions.
  • Names of any attending emergency personnel.

6.2 External Reporting

• Care Quality Commission (CQC):
  • Regulation 16 of the CQC Registration Regulations 2009 requires notification of the death of a service user.
  • Notifications must be submitted without delay through the CQC Provider Portal.
• Local Authority and Safeguarding Teams:
  • If there are concerns about abuse, neglect, or safeguarding, immediate reporting is required.
• Integrated Care Board (ICB)/Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG):
  • If the service user was under NHS-funded care, they must be notified.

7. Supporting Families, Staff, and Other Service Users

7.1 Informing and Supporting Families

• A senior member of staff must contact the service user’s Next of Kin with sensitivity and professionalism.
• Staff must offer emotional support and practical guidance, such as information on funeral arrangements.
• Personal belongings should be handled with care and returned following organisational procedures.

7.2 Supporting Other Service Users

• Staff must assess the emotional impact on other service users.
• Counselling and bereavement support may be offered where needed.
• A remembrance activity can be organised if appropriate and in line with cultural and personal preferences.

7.3 Staff Support and Well-being

• Debrief sessions will be held to provide staff with emotional and professional support.
• Staff may access Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) if additional support is needed.

8. Handling Personal Belongings and Property

• A full inventory of belongings will be completed.
• Personal items must be securely stored until collection by the Next of Kin or legal representative.
• If unclaimed, items will be retained for six months before being respectfully disposed of.

9. Record-Keeping and Confidentiality

• All records related to the death must be maintained in line with GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018.
• Medical records, incident reports, and communications must be stored securely.
• Any discussions or reports must remain confidential and respectful.

10. CQC Compliance

This policy aligns with the following CQC regulations:

• Regulation 9: Person-Centred Care – Ensuring the individual’s wishes are respected.
• Regulation 10: Dignity and Respect – Ensuring dignity is maintained in handling a service user’s death.
• Regulation 11: Need for Consent – Following legal consent and DNAR documentation.
• Regulation 12: Safe Care and Treatment – Ensuring safe and lawful handling of a death.
• Regulation 13: Safeguarding Service Users from Abuse and Improper Treatment – Identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns.
• Regulation 16: Receiving and Acting on Complaints – Ensuring any concerns about care leading up to death are investigated.
• Regulation 17: Good Governance – Maintaining accurate records and reporting processes.

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if legislative changes, CQC regulations, or operational requirements necessitate amendments.

For further guidance, contact {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}, Registered Manager at {{org_field_email}}.

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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}}
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