Supporting lone working

Employees are entitled to do their job without feeling threatened, and employers are required to manage the risk to practitioners. For lone workers, risks include vulnerability to violence, threats to mental health or wellbeing, and a person’s medical suitability to working alone. A lone working policy should incorporate several key components to ensure practitioners’ safety and wellbeing when working independently:

• Purpose and scope: Clearly define the policy’s purpose and scope, specifying the situations where health and social care workers may work alone.

• Risk assessment: Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment covering physical and psychological risks associated with lone working.

• Communication protocols: Specify communication procedures, including regular check-ins, reporting mechanisms, and emergency communication channels.

• Training and guidance: Provide comprehensive training on recognising risks, self-defence techniques, and emergency procedures.

• Equipment and resources: Identify the necessary tools, resources, and safety equipment, such as mobile phones, and personal alarms. 

• Service user assessment: Establish guidelines for assessing the potential risks associated with specific service users or situations, and procedures to avoid or manage these risks.

• Transportation safety: Address safety measures for travel, including vehicle checks, road risks, and safety guidelines for public transportation, or walking.

• Health and well-being: Promote practitioners’ physical and mental well-being with an emphasis on taking breaks, prioritising self-care, and prompt reporting of safety concerns.

• Emergency procedures: Clearly define emergency procedures, including contacts, evacuation, and first aid measures.

• Supervision and support: Establish a support system for lone workers, ensuring access to regular supervision, debriefing sessions, and psychological support.

• Review and evaluation: Periodically review and evaluate the policy for effectiveness, making necessary adjustments based on feedback, incidents, or changes in working conditions

Skills for Care provides guidance on effective practice in supporting lone workers here. Guidance for employers and employees on managing the risks of lone working can be found here.

Employers should be aware that risk assessments are needed for home workers who return should be considered lone workers.