Shared Lives Plus

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Our safeguarding policy

Shared Lives Plus is a UK membership charity representing over 6,000 Shared Lives carers, 150 Shared Lives schemes and a growing network of Homeshare organisations across the UK.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all adults and children who come into contact with our work. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

We will:

  • Promote a strong safeguarding culture across the organisation
  • Prevent harm through safe systems, safer recruitment and robust governance
  • Take all concerns of abuse, harm and neglect seriously
  • Ensure concerns are responded to promptly, proportionately and in line with statutory guidance
  • Comply with UK-wide charity safeguarding guidance
  • Maintain accurate, secure and confidential records
  • Support individuals raising concerns
  • Work in partnership with statutory agencies
  • Ensure safeguarding training is delivered to all and relevant to their roles
  • Report serious incidents to relevant regulators where required
  • Have a zero tolerance for abuse, harm and neglect in any form

Scope and application

This policy applies to:

  • Trustees
  • Employees (permanent, temporary and agency)
  • Volunteers
  • Contractors and consultants
  • Anyone representing Shared Lives Plus

Although Shared Lives Plus does not directly provide regulated care services, we may come into contact with:

  • Children under the age of 16 (indirectly)
  • Children aged 16 and above (directly)
  • Adults with care and support needs
  • Older adults
  • Individuals participating in Homeshare arrangements
  • Carers and family members

This policy applies across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. We will comply with relevant legislation in each nation.

This policy takes precedence over programme-specific safeguarding frameworks where applicable.

 

Download the policy and procedure documents below

Policy last updated: April 2026