Contingency and Business Continuity Audit - Care Homes

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  • Is there a current business continuity plan (BCP) covering all foreseeable emergencies and disruptions (e.g., fire, flood, pandemic, power failure)?
  • Is the BCP reviewed at least annually and following significant incidents or regulatory updates?
  • Are key risks (e.g., severe weather, gas leaks, cyberattacks, staff shortages) identified and mitigated in the plan?
  • Are staff aware of the BCP, their roles within it, and how to access it in an emergency?
  • Are emergency contact lists for staff, next of kin, contractors, and emergency services regularly updated and accessible?
  • Is there a clear escalation process in place for critical incidents, including when and how to inform regulators?
  • Are fire, flood, evacuation, and shelter-in-place plans clearly documented and regularly rehearsed via drills?
  • Are alternative accommodation arrangements identified and agreed upon in the event of building evacuation or closure?
  • Is medication continuity accounted for in emergencies, including access to prescriptions, fridge storage, and pharmacy contacts?
  • Is there a plan for managing residents’ dietary needs, hydration, and medical conditions during service disruption?
  • Are fuel, water, heating, and power supply risks assessed and backup solutions identified (e.g., generators, bottled water)?
  • Are food stocks maintained with a contingency reserve to support unexpected delays or disruptions?
  • Are digital system failures (e.g., care planning, MAR charts) covered in the BCP, with manual backups available?
  • Is PPE, infection control, and hygiene considered in pandemic or outbreak planning?
  • Are communication strategies in place for informing residents, relatives, professionals, and staff during emergencies?
  • Are roles for shift leads, on-call staff, and crisis coordinators clearly outlined in the continuity plan?
  • Are staff rotas flexible and cross-trained to manage absences or sudden surges in care demand?
  • Are contractors (e.g., maintenance, IT) involved in continuity planning and briefed on emergency protocols?
  • Are temporary staff or volunteers considered in surge planning, with access to essential training and induction?
  • Are residents with additional needs (e.g., oxygen, mobility, dementia) prioritised in evacuation and emergency support?
  • Is the home’s insurance up to date and inclusive of business interruption and liability coverage?
  • Are key documents (e.g., care plans, MARs, emergency plans) backed up physically or off-site securely?
  • Are residents’ emotional needs supported during and after emergencies (e.g., reassurance, routines, family contact)?
  • Are learning outcomes from past incidents recorded, shared, and used to update plans and training?
  • Is the business continuity plan subject to internal audit and governance review at least annually?