Key question
Safe
People are protected from abuse and avoidable harm.
Quality Statements
- S1Learning cultureWe have a proactive and positive culture of safety based on openness and honesty, in which concerns about safety are listened to, investigated and acted on.
- S2Safe systems, pathways and transitionsWe work with people and our partners to establish and maintain safe systems of care, in which safety is managed, monitored and assured. We ensure continuity of care, including when people move between different services.
- S3SafeguardingWe work with people to understand what being safe means to them and our partners on the best way to achieve this. We concentrate on improving people's lives while protecting their right to live in safety, free from bullying, harassment, abuse, discrimination, avoidable harm and neglect.
- S4Involving people to manage risksWe work with people to understand and manage risks, and acknowledge that living with risk is normal. We do not restrain or restrict people unless absolutely necessary and proportionate.
- S5Safe environmentsWe detect and control potential risks in the care environment. We make sure that equipment, facilities and technology support the delivery of safe care.
- S6Safe and effective staffingWe make sure there are enough qualified, skilled and experienced people, who receive effective support, supervision and development. They work together effectively to provide safe care that meets people's individual needs.
- S7Infection prevention and controlWe assess and manage the risk of infection. We detect and control the risk of it spreading and share any concerns with appropriate agencies promptly.
- S8Medicines optimisationWe make sure that medicines and treatments are safe and meet people's needs, capacities and preferences by enabling them to be involved in planning, including when changes happen.
Example evidence
A few examples of the evidence CQC inspectors expect to see for this area:
- Incident Analysis Audit
- Two-Week Wait (2WW) Referral Audit
- Safeguarding Training Matrix
See the full example-evidence checklist
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