Heartfelt Care Services Limited Employment Handbook

Welcome to Heartfelt Care Services Limited!

We are delighted to have you join our team. As a dedicated healthcare service provider, our mission is to deliver compassionate and high-quality care to all our clients. We believe in fostering an environment of trust, respect, and professional growth. This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of our policies, procedures, and benefits to help you succeed in your role and feel supported throughout your career with us.

Our Mission, Values, and Goals

At Heartfelt Care Services Limited, our mission is to provide compassionate, person-centred care that respects each client's dignity and individuality. Our core values are integrity, empathy, teamwork, excellence, and respect. Our goal is to be a leading provider of healthcare services by continuously improving the quality of care we offer and supporting our staff in their professional development.

Employment Policies

1. Equal Opportunity and Diversity Policy

   We are committed to providing equal opportunities to all employees and employment applicants. Discrimination based on race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law is prohibited. We value diversity and believe it enhances the quality of care we provide.

2. Code of Conduct and Ethics

   All employees are expected to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct and ethics. It includes maintaining patient confidentiality, respecting colleagues, and adhering to all company policies and legal requirements.

   Anti-Harassment and Bullying Policy

3. Heartfelt Care Services Limited has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment or bullying of any kind. This policy applies to all employees, clients, and visitors. If you experience harassment or bullying, please report it immediately to your supervisor or HR.

4. Attendance and Punctuality

   Regular attendance and punctuality are crucial for providing consistent care to our clients. Please notify your supervisor immediately if you cannot attend work or will be late.

5. Dress Code and Personal Appearance

   Employees are expected to maintain a professional appearance at all times. This includes wearing the provided uniform, maintaining high personal grooming standards, and following infection control guidelines.

6. Confidentiality Agreement

   All employees must sign a confidentiality agreement to protect patient and company information. Breaches of confidentiality are taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action.

Job Descriptions and Expectations

1. Healthcare Support Workers and Care Assistants

   Detailed job descriptions for healthcare support workers and care assistants outline the roles and responsibilities expected in your position. These include assisting with daily living activities, maintaining patient hygiene, and supporting patients with mobility and nutrition. A high standard of professional behaviour and performance is expected at all times.

2. Performance Standards

   Employees are expected to provide compassionate and effective care, adhere to care plans, maintain accurate records, and communicate effectively with clients and healthcare professionals.

Health and Safety Policies

1. Workplace Safety Guidelines

   The safety of our staff and clients is paramount. All employees must follow safety protocols, including correctly using equipment and reporting hazards or incidents immediately.

2. Infection Control Procedures

   Adherence to infection control procedures is essential to prevent the spread of infections. This includes regular handwashing, using personal protective equipment (PPE) as required, and following guidelines for cleaning and disinfection.

3. Emergency Procedures and Contact Information

   Familiarize yourself with the emergency procedures and contact information for your location.

   It includes knowing the nearest emergency exits, fire assembly points, and the procedure for calling emergency services.

4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Guidelines

   Employees must wear the appropriate PPE for their tasks to protect themselves and clients. PPE must be used as instructed and disposed of properly after use.

Training and Development

1. Mandatory Training

   All employees must complete mandatory training courses, such as manual handling, first aid, infection control, and safeguarding. These courses ensure that employees can perform their duties safely and effectively.

2. Professional Development Opportunities

   We encourage continuous professional development. We will provide opportunities for further education, training, and skill enhancement, and employees are encouraged to participate.

Employee Benefits

1. Compensation and Pay Policy

   Compensation will be competitive and aligned with industry standards. Pay reviews will occur regularly to ensure fairness and equity.

2. Overtime and Shift Work

   Sometimes, overtime work is required. Employees will be compensated according to our overtime policy, which is aligned with national labour laws.

3. Holiday and Leave Policy

   Employees are entitled to annual, sick, and maternity/paternity leave. Please refer to the specific sections in the handbook for details on eligibility and procedures for requesting leave.

4. Health and Well-being Programs

   We offer various programs to support the health and well-being of our employees, including access to counselling services, fitness programs, and health checks.

Performance and Disciplinary Procedures

1. Performance Review Process

   Performance reviews are conducted annually to assess progress and set goals for the coming year. Feedback is provided, and opportunities for growth are discussed.

2. Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures

   Should there be a need for disciplinary action, a fair and transparent process will be followed. Employees have the right to appeal decisions and have representation during meetings.

3. Appeal Process

   You have the right to appeal if you disagree with a disciplinary decision. The appeal process will be conducted fairly and transparently.

Data Protection and Privacy Policy

1. Handling of Data

   We are committed to protecting the personal data of our employees and patients. We will handle data in accordance with the Data Protection Act and GDPR guidelines, ensuring confidentiality and security.

2. Data Storage and Access

   Employee and patient data will be stored securely, with access limited to authorized personnel only.

Technology and Social Media Use

1. Use of Company Devices

   Company devices are to be used for work purposes only. Personal use of company devices is prohibited unless explicitly authorized.

2. Social Media Conduct

   Employees are expected to use social media responsibly. Posting confidential or inappropriate information about the company, colleagues, or patients is strictly prohibited.

Ending Employment

1. Resignation and Notice Periods

   Employees wishing to resign must provide notice as per their contract of employment. During the notice period, employees are expected to continue fulfilling their duties to the best of their abilities.

2. Exit Interview Process

   An exit interview will be conducted to understand your experience with the company and gather feedback for improvement.

Role-Specific Documentation for Healthcare Support Workers and Care Assistants

1. Patient Care Guidelines

   Standard operating procedures (SOPs) are provided for daily care tasks, including bathing, feeding, and mobility assistance. Guidelines for medication administration and recording patient observations are also included where applicable.

2. Safeguarding Policy

   This policy outlines procedures for recognizing and reporting abuse, neglect, or exploitation. It includes contact information for safeguarding officers and external agencies.

3. Manual Handling Policy

   Instructions for safe lifting, moving, and handling patients are provided to prevent injuries.

4. Infection Control Policy

   The procedure for preventing the spread of infections, such as hand hygiene and PPE usage, is outlined in detail.

Compliance and Legal Documentation

1. Employment Contract

   Each employee will receive a contract outlining the terms of employment, including hours, pay, job title, and probation period.

2. Consent Forms

   Employees must acknowledge critical confidentiality and data protection policies by signing consent forms.

3. Health and Safety Assessments

   Regular risk assessments are conducted to ensure a safe working environment. Employees are expected to participate and adhere to recommendations.

4. Mandatory Training Records

   Records of completed training courses are maintained to ensure compliance with legal and organizational requirements.

Operational and Administrative Documents

1. Shift Rosters and Scheduling Policies

   Shift rosters will be provided in advance, and any changes will be communicated promptly. Employees are expected to adhere to their assigned schedules.

2. Incident Reporting Procedures

   All incidents must be reported immediately using the incident report form. It ensures proper documentation and follow-up action to prevent recurrence.

3. Communication Protocols

   Clear guidelines on how to communicate within the team and with other healthcare professionals are provided to ensure effective collaboration.

Support and Resources for Employees

1. Mental Health and Well-being Resources

   All employees have access to information on support services, such as counselling and mental health resources. Your well-being is important to us.

2. Whistleblowing Policy

   Employees are encouraged to report misconduct or unsafe practices without fear of retaliation. All reports will be handled confidentially and investigated thoroughly.

Quality Assurance and Feedback Mechanisms

1. Feedback Forms

   Employees are encouraged to provide feedback on policies, practices, or workplace issues. Feedback forms are available and can be submitted anonymously.

2. Continuous Improvement Programs

   We believe in continuous improvement and value input from our staff. We will provide information on how to contribute to improving care practices and the workplace environment.

Updates and Revisions

1. Amendment Policy

   This handbook is subject to updates and revisions. Employees will be notified of any changes, and an updated version will be available. Your feedback is always welcome to ensure our policies and procedures remain effective and relevant.

Heartfelt Care Services Limited

Human Resources Department