Person Centred Risk Assessment Template for England and Wales

A Person Centred Risk Assessment is a comprehensive evaluation tool that balances individual autonomy with necessary safeguarding measures in care settings. Under England and Wales legislation, this document ensures you comply with statutory requirements while respecting personal choice and dignity. The assessment follows a structured approach to identify potential risks, evaluate their impact, and implement proportionate control measures that align with the individual's preferences and capacity.

When do you need this document?

You need a Person Centred Risk Assessment when providing care services, supporting individuals with disabilities, or managing healthcare environments where risk factors exist. This includes residential care facilities conducting admission assessments, community care teams developing support plans, healthcare professionals treating patients with complex needs, and social services investigating safeguarding concerns. The assessment is particularly crucial when working with vulnerable adults, individuals with learning disabilities, mental health conditions, or physical impairments that may affect their ability to recognize or respond to risks.

Key legal considerations

The assessment must demonstrate adherence to the five principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, including the presumption of capacity and the right to make unwise decisions. You must document the individual's capacity specific to each risk decision, ensuring any restrictions are the least restrictive option necessary. The Care Act 2014 requires you to promote wellbeing and prevent needs from developing, while the Human Rights Act 1998 protects the individual's right to private and family life. Under the Equality Act 2010, you must consider protected characteristics and make reasonable adjustments. Documentation should evidence proportionate responses that balance autonomy with duty of care obligations established under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

Legal requirements in England and Wales

England and Wales law mandates specific elements in risk assessments for regulated care activities. The CQC requires evidence of person-centred approaches that involve individuals in risk management decisions wherever possible. You must conduct capacity assessments using the two-stage test outlined in the Mental Capacity Act 2005, documenting functional and diagnostic elements. The Care Act 2014 statutory guidance requires consideration of the individual's views, wishes, and feelings, alongside input from family members or advocates. Risk assessments must be regularly reviewed, with clear escalation procedures for changing circumstances. Local safeguarding procedures must be followed where risks indicate potential abuse or neglect, ensuring coordination with relevant agencies including social services, police, and healthcare providers.