17.1.2 Wasted journeys

Policy statement

A wasted journey is one where a Support Worker having arrived at a destination as planned but is unable to carry out their duties. Alternatives may be found if possible. In certain circumstances the Support Worker may be paid for the time lost.

Definitions

Reasons for a wasted journey may include:

The Support Worker is refused admission
The Client refuses to allow the care task to be performed
The Client is not at home and Supported Lives has not been notified in advance
A family member or other carer is present at the service user's home and the Support worker is not required
The Support Worker leaves following abuse (as defined in the Safer working practice) by the Client or other person(s)

Immediate response

If a support worker is unable to carry out a planned visit, they must contact the office straight away to notify them that they have had a wasted journey, and the reason for this.

Unplanned absence of service user

If the client is away either in hospital, on holiday or for unplanned respite, the team leader will try to find reasonable alternative work to make up the same hours.

If no suitable alternative can be found, the support worker will be paid at the appropriate rate of pay for all visits programmed in the first week of absence. If however the team leader is able to find reasonable alternative work to make up the same hours, only the initial visit will be treated as a wasted journey.

Planned absence

Where the service user has regular planned respite, holiday or hospital admissions the team leader will endeavour to find reasonable alternative work to make up the hours over that month in line with the needs of the service.