ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

This policy supports providers in identifying the steps they will take to fulfil their responsibilities to run a socially responsible and environmentally sustainable business. It has been reviewed with no changes.

1. Purpose

1.1 Commitment

To demonstrate the commitment of A-A Quality Care Ltd to social, ethical and environmentally sustainable issues, which A-A Quality Care Ltd can positively influence both internally within the service and externally.

1.2 Alignment

To align social, ethical and environmental activities of A-A Quality Care Ltd with its business purpose and values.

1.3 Related Policies

The following policies should be read alongside this policy:

Environmental Policy and Procedure
Adverse Weather Policy and Procedure
Business Plan Policy and Procedure

1.4 Key Questions & Quality Statements

Key Question	Quality Statements
WELL-LED	QSW1: Shared direction and culture QSW2: Capable, compassionate and inclusive leaders

1.5 Relevant Legislation

Companies Act 2006
Equality Act 2010
The Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014
Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Registration and Regulated Activities) (Amendment) Regulations 2015
The Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) (Amendment) Regulations 2012
Human Rights Act 1998
Climate Change Act 2008
The Environment Act 2021
Modern Slavery Act 2015

2. Scope

2.1 Roles Affected

All staff

2.2 People Affected

Service Users

2.3 Stakeholders Affected

Family
Advocates
Representatives
Commissioners
External health professionals
Local Authority
NHS
Housing/Accommodation Partnerships (where applicable)

3. Objectives

3.1 Positive Influence

To identify social, ethical and ecological issues which A-A Quality Care Ltd can positively influence.

3.2 Staff Awareness

To equip employees of A-A Quality Care Ltd to understand their social and environmental responsibilities beyond the services provided to Service Users.

3.3 Ethical Commitment

To demonstrate to stakeholders the commitment of A-A Quality Care Ltd to working ethically in a proactive way across the business, including its supply chain.

4. Policy

4.1 Corporate Social Responsibility

Corporate social responsibility is a business practice that looks beyond the ability to make a profit and considers the value that an organisation can make to wider society while carrying out activities ethically and responsibly.

A-A Quality Care Ltd understands:

That it is part of the wider world and aims to give back through social, ethical and environmental means.
The importance of climate change and the risks it poses to Service Users, staff and the wider community.
The need to lower carbon emissions and promote a healthy work environment.
The importance of integrating environmental considerations into business decisions.

4.2 Environmental Sustainability

A-A Quality Care Ltd is committed to reducing its impact on the environment and proactively helping to protect it.

Recycle wherever possible.
Reduce waste through accurate procurement.
Promote greener travel arrangements.
Use environmentally friendly technology.
Source locally where possible.
Support UK net zero commitments.

4.3 Transparency

Ensure all business dealings are transparent and open.
Follow policies and procedures consistently.
Ensure staff are legally fit for their roles.

4.4 Ethical Commitment

Treat all stakeholders with dignity and respect.
Ensure fair treatment for everyone.
Maintain anti-bribery and anti-corruption measures.
Work with partners who share similar ethical standards.

4.5 Human Rights

A-A Quality Care Ltd will uphold the human rights of Service Users, employees, stakeholders and supply chains.

Modern Slavery

A-A Quality Care Ltd has a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery.

Equal Opportunity

A-A Quality Care Ltd is an equal opportunities employer and values workforce diversity.

No discrimination based on age, disability, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation.
Complaints and whistleblowing policies are actively encouraged.

4.6 Local Community

A-A Quality Care Ltd will create opportunities for the local community to participate in activities and support charitable causes where possible.

4.7 Quality Assurance

The Registered Manager operates quality assurance processes to identify areas for improvement.

4.8 Vision and Values Review

All sustainability initiatives will align with the organisation’s vision, values and purpose.

4.9 Learning and Development

Staff will receive support and information relating to corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability.

5. Procedure

5.1 Responsibilities

PHILLIP & ROWENA ASAFO-AGYEI and the Registered Manager are responsible for the content and dissemination of this policy.

5.2 Waste Reduction

Energy efficiency
Greener transport alternatives
Reducing paper use
Reducing food waste
Recycling and repairs
Optimising staffing ratios

5.3 The Green Plan

A-A Quality Care Ltd has developed a Green Plan to improve sustainable operations and support CQC Environmental Sustainability assessments.

Organisational sustainability priorities
Three-year sustainability actions
Digital transformation initiatives
Greener travel and transport
Energy-efficient buildings
Waste reduction measures
Climate adaptation planning

5.4 Carbon Footprint Measure

Measures are in place to assess and review environmental impact and carbon emissions.

5.5 Carbon and Emissions Reduction

Greener travel arrangements
Sustainable supply chains
Energy-saving practices
Waste reduction initiatives
Recycling strategies

5.6 Using Local Suppliers

Local suppliers will be considered wherever possible.

5.7 Health Benefits

Lower carbon emissions support healthier outcomes for staff, Service Users and the wider community.

5.8 Working with Stakeholders

Sustainability changes will be discussed with stakeholders and approved by senior management.

5.9 Staff Training

Staff will receive training on corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability.

5.10 Auditing

Annual audits and reports will review sustainability initiatives and their effectiveness.

6. Definitions

6.1 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

CSR is a self-regulating business model that helps organisations remain socially accountable.

6.2 Sustainability

Preventing the depletion of natural resources to maintain environmental balance.

6.3 Environment

The natural world we inhabit.

6.4 Ethical

Conduct based on principles of right and wrong.

6.5 Modern Slavery

Modern slavery includes exploitation through force, coercion or deception.

7. Key Facts - Professionals

A-A Quality Care Ltd gives back through social, ethical and environmental means.
The organisation procures ethically and protects human rights.
All staff are treated fairly.
The environment is protected through greener alternatives.
Everyone has a responsibility to act responsibly.

8. Key Facts - People Affected by the Service

A-A Quality Care Ltd supports staff, Service Users, the community and nature.
The organisation carefully selects environmentally responsible suppliers and products.
Fairness and sustainability are central to operations.