Working alone is part of the job
Carers and home-visit staff often work alone and travel between clients. Clear arrangements help staff and managers feel confident about the work.
Check-in arrangements
Agree how staff check in at the start and end of each visit and what happens if a check-in is missed. Keep the process short and easy to follow.
Planning the day
Share the route and timings for the day with a named contact. Note any visit that needs a second person and arrange cover in advance.
Getting help
Make sure staff know how to call for help, who to call first and where the emergency numbers are. Practise the process at team meetings.
Reviewing the arrangements
Review the process after any incident or near miss, and at least once a year. Ask staff what would make the work safer.
