Duty of care plays a central role in keeping people safe across all areas of health and social care. It outlines the actions required to protect individuals, support their wellbeing, and maintain a high standard of care. In this guide, we explain what duty of care means, why it matters, and how it is applied every day within Splendid Care Homes.
What Does Duty of Care Mean?
Duty of care refers to the responsibility one person has to ensure another is safe, protected, and treated with respect. It is a significant responsibility that must always be taken seriously.
When you have a duty of care toward someone, you must:
- Prioritise their safety.
- Take reasonable steps to prevent harm.
- Act in their best interests.
- Support their wellbeing at all times.
This responsibility exists in many environments, including schools, workplaces, hospitals, and social care services.
Why Is Duty of Care Important?
Duty of care is essential because it helps create a safe, structured, and trustworthy environment. In health and social care settings, it ensures that risks are identified and managed early, preventing harm before it occurs.
A strong duty of care helps to:
- Protect vulnerable individuals.
- Promote accountability among staff.
- Maintain high standards of safety and support.
- Build confidence for residents and their families.
When risks are recognised early, staff can put effective measures in place to safeguard everyone in their care.
What Is a Duty of Care Advocate?
A duty of care advocate is someone who speaks up on behalf of another person to ensure they are safe, supported, and treated fairly. This is an important role, especially for individuals who may find it difficult to express their needs or preferences.
As an advocate, you are responsible for:
- Raising concerns if something is not in the individual’s best interests
- Helping them understand their rights and choices
- Making sure their voice is heard
- Ensuring decisions made for them promote their wellbeing
Advocates play a crucial part in protecting those who rely on others for daily care and support.
Duty of Care in a Care Home Setting
In care homes like those within Splendid Care Homes, the duty of care is at the heart of every interaction. Carers, nurses, and support staff must take all necessary steps to keep residents safe and well looked after.
Responsibility includes:
- Assisting with daily activities such as personal care, mobility, and mealtimes.
- Ensuring the environment is clean, safe, and regularly checked.
- Identifying hazards and resolving issues early.
- Monitoring residents’ health and emotional wellbeing.
- Administering medication safely and accurately.
- Communicating concerns immediately.
By remaining observant and proactive, staff help prevent risks from escalating and create a reassuring, safe environment for residents.
Is Duty of Care a Legal Requirement?
Yes. Duty of care is a legal requirement in all health and social care settings. Care homes must follow strict regulations, safety standards, and lawful practices designed to protect the people who live there.
Failing to meet duty of care obligations can lead to:
- Investigations.
- Enforcement action.
- Fines or legal consequences.
- Risks to resident safety.
Duty of care also builds trust. Families want to know that their loved one is supported by a team they can rely on, people who put safety, wellbeing, and dignity first.
How to Create a Duty of Care Policy
While the duty exists regardless of documentation, having a clear written policy is the best way to outline expectations and ensure consistent practice across a care service.
Here are 8 steps to creating an effective duty of care policy:
- Write a clear statement defining the duty of care in your setting.
- Detail staff roles and outline their responsibilities.
- Identify common risks and explain how they should be managed.
- Set clear guidelines for reporting concerns or incidents.
- Include safeguarding information to help protect vulnerable people.
- Add procedures for safe care, such as medication and personal support.
- State how the policy will be updated and reviewed.
- Train all staff so they fully understand the policy and follow it correctly.
Final Duty of Care Guidance
Duty of care is about protecting people, supporting wellbeing, and creating a setting where risks are reduced and safety is prioritised. When staff understand their responsibilities and follow clear guidance, the standard of care improves and residents feel protected and valued.
A strong duty of care approach gives staff confidence, builds trust with families, and enhances the overall quality of life for everyone in the home.
Looking for a Care Home That Prioritises Safety and Wellbeing?
If you want to see how duty of care is applied every day, we welcome you to visit Splendid Care Homes. Meet our team, explore our supportive environments, and discover how we prioritise resident safety and comfort.
