First Choice Healthcare — Carer Handbook

On the Road

Accidents & Driving

All accidents, incidents, and near-misses must be reported. No exceptions, no delays. Accurate reporting protects clients, protects you, and helps us prevent future incidents.

Accident & Incident Reporting

Every accident, incident, or near-miss must be reported within 24 hours, regardless of how minor it may seem. This includes injuries to clients, injuries to yourself, falls, medication errors, equipment failures, property damage, and any event that could have caused harm.

Steps to Follow After an Incident

Ensure the immediate safety of the client and yourself — call 999 if anyone requires emergency medical attention

Contact your manager by phone as soon as it is safe to do so — do not wait until the end of your shift

Complete an incident report form with full, factual, and accurate details within 24 hours

Do not disturb the scene of an accident unless doing so is necessary to ensure safety

Cooperate fully with any subsequent investigation

RIDDOR

Certain serious incidents are reportable under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations). Your manager will determine whether an incident is RIDDOR-reportable. Your responsibility is to report accurately and promptly so that the correct procedures can be followed.

Reporting Reminder

All incidents must be reported within 24 hours. If in doubt about whether something needs reporting, report it. It is always better to report and be told it was not needed than to fail to report something that was.

Safe Driving

If you drive as part of your role, you are responsible for ensuring you do so safely and legally at all times. Driving to and from client visits is part of your professional responsibility.

Driving Requirements

Never use your mobile phone while driving — not even hands-free unless safely parked

Ensure your vehicle has a valid MOT, road tax, and appropriate insurance for business use

Observe all speed limits and road traffic laws at all times

Do not drive if you are feeling unwell, fatigued, or if your ability is impaired in any way

Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy, clean, and safe for transporting clients if required

Report any driving convictions, penalty points, or changes to your licence to your manager immediately

Never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication that impairs your ability

If You Have a Road Accident

Stop immediately and ensure the safety of all persons involved

Call emergency services on 999 if anyone is injured

Exchange details with other parties as required by law

Contact your manager as soon as it is safe to do so

Do not admit liability at the scene

Complete an incident report within 24 hours

Lone Working

Your First Visit

Command Palette