Annual Infection Control Statement

Statement of Intent

This annual statement will be generated each year in accordance with the requirements of The Health and Social Care Act 2008 Code of Practice on the prevention and control of infections and related guidance.

Adur Health Partnership is committed to providing high-quality care in a safe and clean environment. We recognise the importance of effective infection prevention and control (IPC) in protecting patients, staff, visitors, and the wider community.

This Annual Infection Control Statement demonstrates our compliance with the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 and the associated Code of Practice on the Prevention and Control of Infections, and reflects our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement.

Leadership and Responsibility

Overall responsibility for infection prevention and control rests with the Practice Partners. Day-to-day responsibility is delegated to the Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Lead, who ensures that appropriate systems, training, audits, and monitoring arrangements are in place.

All staff, including clinical, administrative, and cleaning personnel, share responsibility for maintaining high standards of infection control and are expected to comply with practice policies and procedures.

Policies and Procedures

The practice maintains up-to-date infection control policies and procedures, reviewed at least annually and aligned with current national guidance. These include hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), management of sharps and inoculation injuries, cleaning and decontamination, waste management, specimen handling, and management of spillages.

Training and Education

All staff receive infection prevention and control training at induction and through regular updates at least annually. Training compliance is monitored and recorded.

Risk Assessment and Audits

Regular infection control audits and risk assessments are undertaken, including hand hygiene, environmental, and cleaning audits. Any identified risks are addressed through action plans which are monitored for completion.

Staff Training

All clinical and non-clinical staff undertake infection control training and this is clearly outlined in the induction policy for new staff. Our current education provider is Practice Index. Adur Health Partnership has also added the Healthcare Waste Management module to staff induction as a result of the Audits required by our waste contractor, Anenta.

Premises and Equipment

The practice premises and equipment are maintained to support effective infection control. Cleaning schedules are in place and monitored, and equipment is cleaned and serviced in line with manufacturers’ instructions and national guidance.

Patient and Public Involvement

Patients are encouraged to support infection prevention measures, including hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette. Information is available within the practice to promote awareness.

Review and Improvement

This statement is reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes to legislation, guidance, or practice arrangements.

Reviewed by: IPC Lead and members of the IPC Assurance Group

Date of Review: February 2026

Next Review Due: February 2027