Sustainability is often perceived as a complex and challenging topic, especially for businesses with limited resources. For those in the care sector, this complexity is compounded by existing regulatory pressures and operational demands. However, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) is now expecting care organisations to consider sustainability through their Single Assessment Framework. Let’s break down what sustainability means, why it matters, and how you can start implementing it in your care home to improve your bottom line without feeling overwhelmed.
What is Sustainability?
Simply put, sustainability is about doing well by doing good. This definition from Harvard Business School captures the essence of sustainability. For a more detailed understanding, you can refer to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which cover environmental, social, and governance aspects.
Why Sustainability Matters
Sustainability is not just a regulatory requirement; it’s a smart business strategy that can enhance your bottom line. Implementing sustainable practices can lead to cost savings, improved efficiencies, and a positive reputation. This is especially important in the care sector, where trust and reliability are paramount.
Environmental Sustainability: Where to Begin
Assess Your Current Position
Start by understanding your current environmental compliance status. This includes:
- Waste Reduction and Recycling: Evaluate your waste management practices. Are you recycling efficiently? Can you reduce waste further? Lower waste management costs can directly impact your bottom line.
- Carbon Footprint: Measure your carbon emissions. Identify areas where you can reduce your footprint, potentially lowering energy costs.
- Energy and Water Conservation: Assess your energy and water usage. Implement measures to conserve both, which can significantly reduce utility bills.
- Transport Initiatives: Consider the environmental impact of your transportation and logistics. More efficient transport solutions can reduce fuel costs.
Make a Plan
These actions might seem overwhelming, but remember that each step can lead to significant savings and benefits for your business. Incorporate sustainability into your business plan to meet future regulatory requirements and understand potential capital commitments, all while improving your financial performance.
Social Sustainability: Caring for People
Sustainability isn’t just about the environment; it’s also about people. For the care sector, this means focusing on:
- Equality and Diversity: Promote a diverse and inclusive workplace, which can improve staff retention and reduce hiring costs.
- Decent Work and Health and Wellbeing: Ensure your staff have good working conditions and support their wellbeing. Happy, healthy staff are more productive and provide better care.
- Impact Measurement: Use stories and actions to evidence the positive impact you’re making on staff and care receivers. This evidence can attract new employees and reassure those you care for, leading to higher occupancy rates and stability in your revenue stream.
Governance: Building Accountability
Strong governance is crucial for sustainability. This includes setting measures, accountability targets, and ensuring accurate compliance with CQC and ICS assessments. Good governance practices ensure your sustainability efforts are credible and effective, contributing to a more stable and profitable organisation.
Practical Steps to Get Started
Identify Existing Efforts
Many care homes are already engaging in sustainable practices without realising it. Look at what you’re currently doing:
- Waste Reduction and Recycling: Are there existing initiatives you can measure and improve?
- Energy and Water Conservation: Can you quantify the savings from current practices?
- Staff and Patient Welfare: Are there existing policies or actions that promote wellbeing and equality?
Measure and Evidence
Start documenting and measuring these efforts. This not only helps you understand your current position but also provides evidence of your commitment to sustainability. This evidence is valuable for meeting regulatory requirements and demonstrating your efforts to stakeholders, which can improve your organisation’s credibility and financial standing.
Assign Responsibility
Decide where sustainability activities will sit within your organisation. This might vary depending on your structure and resources. It could be a dedicated role or part of an existing team’s responsibilities. Clear roles ensure focused efforts and better results, contributing to a healthier bottom line.
Seek Help and Build Knowledge
Understand the regulations and requirements expected of you. Look for resources and support from industry bodies, sustainability experts, and other organisations that have successfully implemented sustainable practices. Learning from others can reduce costs and accelerate your progress.
Conclusion
Sustainability is here to stay, and the sooner organisations understand its importance, the better. By starting with what you’re already doing and building from there, you can integrate sustainability into your business as usual. This not only helps meet regulatory requirements but also positions your care home for long-term success and financial health.
Embrace sustainability, not as a challenge, but as an opportunity to enhance your care home’s efficiency, reputation, and bottom line.
Sustainable X are Award winning Sustainability consultants that support organisations with sustainability, from wherever they are starting.