Equinox Physiotherapy 

Safe Keeping of Patient Property & Possessions Policy 

1. Purpose 

To ensure that patient property and possessions are handled safely, respectfully, and  securely while patients are attending Equinox Physiotherapy, reducing the risk of loss,  damage, or disputes. 

2. Scope 

This policy applies to all staff, patients, and visitors within Equinox Physiotherapy premises. 

3. Policy Statement 

Equinox Physiotherapy recognises its responsibility to: 

• Respect patient belongings at all times 

• Minimise risk of loss or damage 

• Act promptly and transparently if incidents occur 

Patients are encouraged to keep personal belongings with them at all times where possible. 

4. Responsibilities 

All Staff: 

• Treat patient property with care and respect 

• Follow procedures for handling lost or handed-in items 

• Report any incidents immediately 

Registered Manager: 

• Ensure systems are in place for safe handling and recording 

• Investigate any incidents or complaints 

• Maintain records of lost or found items 

5. Procedure 

5.1 Patient Responsibility 

• Patients should avoid bringing valuables where possible 

• Personal items remain the responsibility of the patient unless formally handed over

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5.2 Items Handed to Staff for Safekeeping 

If a patient requests staff to hold an item: 

• Item must be recorded in a Property Log Book including: 

o Patient name 

o Description of item 

o Date/time received 

o Staff member name 

• Item stored securely (e.g. locked drawer/cabinet) 

• Returned to patient with signature confirmation 

5.3 Lost Property 

• Any found items must be: 

o Logged in the Lost Property Register 

o Stored securely 

• Reasonable steps will be taken to identify the owner 

• Unclaimed items will be retained for a minimum of 3 months before disposal 

5.4 Incident Reporting 

If property is lost, damaged, or stolen: 

• Incident must be recorded in the Incident Reporting System 

• Patient informed promptly 

• Investigation carried out by the Registered Manager 

• Actions taken to prevent recurrence 

6. Security Measures 

• Secure storage areas available for temporary safekeeping 

• Staff awareness of responsibilities 

• Clear processes for logging and tracking items 

7. Record Keeping 

The following records will be maintained: 

• Property Log Book 

• Lost Property Register 

• Incident Reports 

All records will comply with data protection requirements. 

8. Complaints 

Any concerns regarding property handling will be managed in line with the Complaints  Policy.

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Document Control

Policy Ref	Version	Date	Owner	Review Date
Equinox Safekeeping Policy	1.0	26 February 2026	Clinical Director	26 February 2027

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