Lone Working in Health and Social Care Training Course

Lone working is a common part of health and social care, where staff may carry out duties without direct supervision or colleagues nearby. While it is often necessary, it comes with specific risks to safety, wellbeing, and professional practice. Understanding how to manage these risks is essential for ensuring both worker and service user safety.

This free lone working course introduces the principles of lone working, the legal responsibilities of employers and employees, and practical strategies for staying safe. It also covers risk assessments, communication techniques, mental health awareness, and incident reporting to build resilience and confidence when working alone.

Why Take This eLearning Course?

Lone working can expose staff to unique risks—from medical emergencies to conflict situations—and without the right preparation, these risks can escalate. This course provides the tools and knowledge to help lone workers stay safe, comply with legislation, and protect their wellbeing.

Here’s why this course is for you:

• Clarity and confidence: Understand what lone working is, where it applies, and the challenges it presents in social care.
• Know your responsibilities: Learn about the legal duties of both employers and employees, including UK health and safety regulations.
• Recognise risks: Identify common hazards, including environmental, medical, and psychological risks.
• Be prepared: Learn how to conduct formal and dynamic risk assessments and apply strategies to reduce risks.
• Stay safe in practice: Explore safety measures, personal protective equipment (PPE), and preparation for lone working scenarios.
• Handle conflict effectively: Gain de-escalation techniques, communication skills, and ways to stay connected with supervisors.
• Plan for emergencies: Learn protocols for responding to emergencies and summoning assistance.
• Protect mental health: Understand the impact of lone working on wellbeing, with strategies for self-care and resilience.
• Respond professionally: Follow correct incident reporting and aftercare procedures to improve safety for the future.
• Improve personal awareness: Apply self-awareness techniques to remain alert, avoid risks, and protect yourself in different environments.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Define lone working and explain where it applies in social care.
• Recognise the challenges and risks of working alone.
• Explain employer and employee legal responsibilities under health and safety law.
• Identify risks and hazards, including medical emergencies.
• Conduct and apply risk assessments for lone working.
• Implement practical safety measures, including PPE use where required.
• Apply communication and de-escalation strategies effectively.
• Follow emergency response protocols confidently.
• Recognise the impact of lone working on mental health and apply resilience techniques.
• Report and record incidents or near misses accurately.
• Use self-awareness and personal safety strategies to remain vigilant while working alone.

Target Audience

This course is designed for:

• Health and social care staff including NHS who work alone, such as support workers and community carers.
• Employers, managers, and supervisors responsible for lone workers.
• Volunteers and others undertaking roles without direct supervision.

No prior training is required—this course is accessible for beginners and offers depth for experienced professionals.

FAQ

What does the course cover?
It covers lone working risks, legal duties, risk assessments, safety measures, communication, conflict management, emergency procedures, and mental health support.

Can I apply what I learn straight away?
Yes. The course provides practical tools and strategies for immediate application in lone working environments.

How long will it take?
The course is self-paced and typically takes 1 hour to complete.

Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. You’ll receive a certificate of completion to evidence your learning.

Is this course relevant to UK practice?
Absolutely. It is based on UK legislation and guidance, including the Health and Safety at Work Act.

Is this course CPD accredited?
Not currently, but CPD accreditation is in progress.

Lone working comes with unique challenges—but with the right training, staff can work safely, confidently, and effectively. This course equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills needed to reduce risks and protect themselves and others.

Join today and build your confidence in lone working safety.