With the winter school holidays here, please take extra care when supporting clients in leisure activities. Keeping everyone safe—both staff and clients—means thinking ahead and managing risks before they become issues.
If you notice any hazards or feel unsure about an activity, speak with your manager so the right controls or changes can be put in place.
Before starting any activity, take a moment to check:
- Is there a current AIMS risk assessment and care plan in place?
- Are the right safety controls practical and ready to use?
- Am I prepared (skills, experience, warm-up)?
- Do I have any personal limitations I should discuss?
- Are conditions safe (weather, terrain, surfaces)?
- Is this the safest option, or is there a better alternative?
If risks can’t be managed safely, adjust the activity or choose a safer option.
Managers must ensure activities are properly assessed. All staff are encouraged to speak up and seek guidance if something doesn’t feel safe.