Involving people to manage risks
Quality statement
We expect providers, commissioners and system leaders live up to this statement:
We work with people to understand and manage risks by thinking holistically so that care meets their needs in a way that is safe and supportive and enables them to do the things that matter to them.
What this quality statement means
- People are informed about any risks and how to keep themselves safe.
- Risks are assessed, and people and staff understand them.
- There is a balanced and proportionate approach to risk that supports people and respects the choices they make about their care.
- Risk assessments about care are person-centred, proportionate, and regularly reviewed with the person, where possible.
- When people communicate their needs, emotions or distress, staff can manage this in a positive way that protects their rights and dignity and maximises learning for the future about the causes of their distress.
- Restraint is only ever used as a last resort. If staff use restraint, it is lawful, for a legitimate purpose, safe and necessary, and staff always follow best practice. Where relevant, equality and human rights legislation is considered. The service always takes a proportionate approach to imposing restrictions on people. People’s care plans reflect any foreseeable risks that may need restrictions.
I statements
I statements reflect what people have said matters to them.
- I feel safe and am supported to understand and manage any risks.
- I know what to do and who I can contact when I realise that things might be at risk of going wrong or my health condition may be worsening.
- If my treatment, including medication, has to change, I know why and am involved in the decision.
- When I move between services, settings or areas, there is a plan for what happens next and who will do what, and all the practical arrangements are in place.
- I have considerate support delivered by competent people.
- I can get information and advice about my health, care and support and how I can be as well as possible – physically, mentally and emotionally.
Subtopics this quality statement covers
- Behaviour that communicates
- Restrictive practice
- Clinical risk
- Managing risk/emergencies
We expect providers to be aware of and follow the following best practice guidance.
Managing risk / emergencies
Sepsis: recognition, diagnosis and early management (NICE guidance [NG51])
2021 Resuscitation Guidelines (Resuscitation Council UK)
Behaviour that communicates
What is challenging behaviour? (The Challenging Behaviour Foundation)
How to deal with challenging behaviour in adults (NHS)
Supporting people with challenging or distressed behaviour (Skills for Care)
UK Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) Competence Framework (PBS Academy)
Restrictive Practice
Out of Sight — Who Cares?: Restraint, segregation and seclusion review (CQC)
A positive and proactive workforce (Skills for Care)
Human rights framework for restraint (Equality and Human Rights Commission)