12.1 The council commits to ensuring the individual and their family or advocate have been fully engaged in the assessment process. However, there may still be some who disagree with our findings, and/or may find it challenging to modify existing practices to address the identified risks.
12.2 In such cases staff must
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- Seek immediate advice from their line manager
- Outline the benefits/advantages/safety for all parties of the planned technique to the individual and their carers
- Seek alternative methods and/or equipment, if possible, from the nominated professional
12.3 If all reasonable efforts to provide a service in a way acceptable to all parties has been unsuccessful, then the designated service manager may consult with the health and safety manager and the legal department to decide whether this constitutes a refusal of service by the individual. The organisation must balance its legal duties to employees under Health and Safety legislation and the quality of care to individuals.
12.4 It is unacceptable for unsafe work practices, which pose a risk of injury to employees and the people we support to continue, whilst a satisfactory solution is found. A balance must be found where one party’s benefit does not significantly increase the other party’s risk. In rare occasions, this may mean a temporary pause in the individual attending in-house services, or a pause in service in their own home until such a time everyone is assured there is a safe environment for staff and people accessing our services.
12.5 If disagreements arise between the assessor/prescriber and the service provider regarding the best way to carry out a manoeuvre, it’s important to prioritise the individual receiving support at the centre of the conversation. This is achieved by coming together to review the risk assessments, alongside the needs, preferences, and well-being of the individual involved. By focusing on the safety, well-being, and preferences of both the individuals receiving support and the staff performing the manoeuvre, they can collaboratively find a solution that minimises risk while ensuring a respectful and effective approach.
