1.1c – Demonstrate that they are working in accordance with the agreed ways of working with their employer

This guide is to help you answer Care Certificate Standard 1.1c.

Employers across health and social care set out agreed ways of working. These are written methods and guidelines that outline how you should do your job. They tell you clearly what is expected in different situations.

Examples of agreed ways of working include:

• Policies: statements that set out a company’s position on specific topics (e.g., safeguarding, infection control).
• Procedures: instructions on how to carry out tasks correctly (e.g., giving medication).
• Codes of conduct: rules about professional behaviour and boundaries.

Organisations provide these standards to maintain quality, safety and consistency in care. Reading and following them means working as your employer expects, both for legal compliance and good practice.

Agreed ways of working often exist as staff handbooks, induction materials, policy folders or online documents. You may also hear them referred to as ‘organisational policies and procedures’.

Why Work to Agreed Ways?

Working to agreed ways is not optional. It helps maintain safety, professionalism and public trust. Following these guidelines means:

• Keeping people safe from harm.
• Meeting legal and regulatory duties.
• Supporting dignity, choice and privacy for those you support.
• Maintaining clear, professional relationships with clients and colleagues.

Failing to follow these ways can put people at risk. It could lead to disciplinary action, complaints or dismissal. In serious situations, it may even involve the police or regulators.

Learning About Agreed Ways

You learn agreed ways in several ways, including:

• Reading documents during your induction or on joining a service.
• Attending training about procedures and policies.
• Supervision sessions, team meetings or briefings.

You are responsible for keeping up to date. When policies change, your employer should let you know. Always ask for clarification if you are unclear on any point.

Demonstrating Working in Accordance

Demonstrating that you follow agreed ways is about your everyday actions. It is not enough to know the policies — you need to show them in your practice.

Common ways you may show this include:

• Handling confidential information as outlined in privacy policies.
• Supporting people’s choices as described in the code of conduct.
• Using moving and handling equipment following the safe systems of work.

Write records as instructed. Use reporting tools properly. Discuss concerns in line with safeguarding procedures. Wear the right uniform and display your ID badge. Each of these demonstrates that you are using the employer’s ways.

Examples of Working to Agreed Ways

Let’s look at practical examples of what this means daily.

Supporting Medicines Administration

• Only administering medicines if you have been trained and authorised.
• Checking the medication administration record (MAR) for instructions.
• Recording doses given straight away.
• Reporting errors or refusals as the medication policy states.

Safeguarding Adults and Children

• Being alert to signs of abuse or neglect.
• Reporting concerns to the manager or safeguarding lead without delay.
• Not investigating incidents yourself — following the reporting procedure.
• Treating concerns confidentially and only sharing information as permitted.

Infection Prevention and Control

• Following handwashing techniques.
• Using personal protective equipment (PPE) properly.
• Disposing of used materials in line with the infection control policy.
• Cleaning equipment after use as set out in procedures.

Moving and Handling

• Using correct moving and handling techniques (e.g., straight back, not twisting).
• Using hoists and slings in line with manufacturer instructions and risk assessments.
• Not lifting people or objects manually when equipment should be used.
• Reporting faulty equipment immediately and not using it.

Record Keeping

• Completing care notes accurately and at the time of care.
• Writing factual, objective notes — no personal opinions.
• Storing records securely, away from unauthorised people.
• Only accessing records for people you are supporting that day.

Working with Colleagues

• Communicating respectfully, using channels like handovers or meetings.
• Reporting incidents, errors or near misses using the set forms.
• Not using mobile phones or social media during work hours unless permitted.

Consequences of Not Following Agreed Ways

Ignoring or breaking agreed ways of working can have serious results. These may include:

• Harm to a person in your care.
• Damage to your colleagues, yourself or the organisation.
• Legal action against you or your employer.
• Regulatory sanctions from bodies like the Care Quality Commission (CQC) or Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

Disciplinary action ranges from informal warnings to dismissal. You may also lose your right to work in the sector. Record-keeping is particularly important, as poor records can lead to investigation.

Your Responsibilities

It is your responsibility to read, understand and work in line with all agreed ways. If you are unsure:

• Ask your line manager for advice.
• Attend all required training.
• Use policy documents for reference.

If you spot a situation where procedures are not followed, raise it with your manager. Do not ignore problems, as this may be seen as neglecting your duty of care.

Keeping up to Date

Agreed ways can change. For example, there may be updates to the Data Protection Act or new guidance on infection control. You must stay informed by:

• Attending briefings or team meetings.
• Reading notices about updated policies.
• Completing refresher training.

If you notice gaps in your knowledge, request training or support. Document how you keep your skills and knowledge current, such as keeping a learning log or CPD record (Continuing Professional Development).

Record Your Action

You can evidence your practice in different ways:

• Daily logs or care notes.
• Medication administration records.
• Incident reports.
• Supervision records.

Evidence can be written, electronic, or discussed during supervision. Keeping clear records shows you are following the agreed ways and provides protection if concerns arise.

Person-Centred Approaches

Agreed ways reflect legal duties (like promoting choice and dignity). Working to them means adapting your approach for each person.

For example:

• Asking the person how they want their care delivered.
• Respecting culture and beliefs as stated in policies.
• Supporting independence, only intervening where needed.
• Protecting confidentiality, only sharing information when necessary.

Legal Frameworks

Many agreed ways of working are based in law. Relevant legislation includes:

• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
• Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR
• Care Act 2014
• Equality Act 2010
• Mental Capacity Act 2005

Policies turn legal requirements into everyday actions. Make sure you refer to your organisation’s procedures so your work aligns with the legal framework.

Supervision, Feedback and Reflective Practice

Regular supervision helps you review your practice. Use these meetings to show you understand and follow agreed ways. Ask for feedback on your performance.

Reflective practice means thinking about your actions and discussing how you meet policies. Reflect on examples such as:

• A time you supported someone’s choice as set out in procedures.
• How you handled confidential information.
• Challenges you faced in following policies.

Use this reflection to improve your practice and fill learning needs.

What to Do If Policies Are Unclear

Sometimes you may not be sure what the agreed way is in a specific situation:

• Speak to your supervisor or manager straight away.
• Refer to the written policy.
• Make a record of what you did and why.

Never make up your own practice. If you are asked to do something against policy, raise your concern and seek advice.

Adapting to Change

Health and social care environments change regularly. For example, if new technology is introduced or if infection control guidance changes after an outbreak.

Quickly familiarise yourself with updated procedures. Attend training and ask questions where unsure. Document your learning to show compliance.

Final Thoughts

Working to your employer’s agreed ways is the foundation of safe, effective care. It gives structure to your work and supports the people using services. Knowing, understanding and putting these agreed ways into practice is expected at every stage of your role.

If you stay informed, make good use of support, and keep up with training, you will meet this requirement in your daily work. Following agreed ways means you are acting professionally, protecting those you care for, and supporting your own development. This helps create a supportive, safe atmosphere for everyone.