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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Shared Accommodation Management Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish clear guidelines for the management of shared accommodation within {{org_field_name}}. This policy ensures that residents living in shared spaces have privacy, dignity, safety, and comfort, while also promoting a harmonious and respectful communal living environment. Our approach aligns with CIW regulations, ensuring high-quality care standards and safeguarding residents’ well-being.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All residents living in shared accommodation within {{org_field_name}}.
• All staff members responsible for managing shared spaces and supporting residents.
• Visitors and external professionals who may interact with residents in shared accommodation.

The policy covers:

• Admission and suitability assessments for shared accommodation.
• Personal rights, privacy, and dignity.
• Conflict resolution and dispute management.
• Health and safety in shared living environments.
• Maintenance and cleanliness of communal spaces.

3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

This policy is aligned with:

• The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016, ensuring high-quality residential care standards.
• The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014, promoting dignity, respect, and person-centred care.
• The Mental Capacity Act 2005, ensuring that residents’ choices regarding shared accommodation are made in their best interests where necessary.
• The Equality Act 2010, preventing discrimination and promoting inclusion in shared living environments.
• The Human Rights Act 1998, ensuring residents’ rights to private and family life.
• CIW Accommodation and Facilities Regulations, ensuring adequate space, safety, and personalisation of shared rooms.

4. Admission and Suitability for Shared Accommodation

4.1 Assessment Before Placement

Before a resident is placed in shared accommodation, a detailed assessment must be conducted to ensure suitability. This includes:

• Personal preferences: Residents must express a willingness to share with another person.
• Compatibility assessments: Consideration of personality, routines, and care needs to match compatible residents.
• Risk assessments: Evaluating any potential safeguarding concerns or health conditions that may impact shared living.
• Consent and legal compliance: Residents (or legal representatives) must give informed consent to share accommodation.

4.2 Reviewing Suitability Over Time

• Quarterly reviews will be conducted to assess the success of shared accommodation.
• If concerns arise (e.g., personality clashes, safeguarding issues, changing needs), staff will consider alternative arrangements.

5. Personal Rights, Privacy, and Dignity

5.1 Residents’ Rights in Shared Accommodation

Residents in shared rooms are entitled to:

• Privacy – personal curtains, screens, or partitions must be available.
• Storage space – each resident will have adequate personal storage (lockable cabinets where required).
• Choice – residents can request a room change if issues arise.
• Respect for personal routines – sleeping patterns, visiting hours, and noise levels should be mutually agreed upon.

5.2 Personalisation of Shared Spaces

• Residents should be encouraged to personalise their area with photos, decorations, and small personal items.
• All decor choices must be respectful of both occupants’ preferences.

6. Conflict Resolution and Dispute Management

6.1 Preventing Disputes

• Staff will proactively monitor shared spaces to identify tensions early.
• Residents are encouraged to express concerns to staff without fear of retribution.
• Clear house rules regarding noise, visitors, and cleanliness will be established with residents.

6.2 Managing Disputes

• If a disagreement arises, staff will facilitate a mediation process between the residents involved.
• Behaviour support strategies will be implemented where necessary.
• If the issue cannot be resolved, staff may:
  • Offer alternative shared accommodation.
  • Explore moving a resident to a single room, if available and appropriate.

7. Health and Safety in Shared Accommodation

7.1 Infection Prevention and Control

• Residents in shared accommodation must be assessed for infection risk before placement.
• If a resident contracts an infectious illness, they may be temporarily relocated to prevent transmission.
• Staff must follow the Infection Prevention and Control Policy (CHW17) to minimise health risks.

7.2 Fire Safety and Emergency Procedures

• Fire safety regulations must be followed, including:
  • Unobstructed fire exits.
  • Clear evacuation procedures for shared spaces.
  • Fire drills conducted every six months.
• Each room will be equipped with smoke alarms and emergency call buttons.

7.3 Security and Safeguarding Measures

• Staff must regularly check shared rooms to ensure safety, comfort, and privacy.
• Residents with safeguarding concerns must be reviewed regularly to assess whether shared accommodation remains appropriate.

8. Maintenance and Cleanliness of Shared Spaces

8.1 Housekeeping Standards

• Daily cleaning will be carried out to maintain a hygienic and comfortable environment.
• Residents will be encouraged to take responsibility for personal belongings and maintain their area.

8.2 Reporting Maintenance Issues

• Faulty equipment, leaks, or damage must be reported immediately.
• Repairs will be prioritised based on risk level, ensuring shared rooms remain safe and functional.

9. Visitor and External Professional Access to Shared Rooms

9.1 Visitors’ Guidelines

• Visitors are welcome but must respect the shared nature of the room.
• Visiting hours will be discussed with both residents to ensure mutual agreement.
• If one resident prefers private visits, alternative areas will be provided.

9.2 Access by External Professionals

• Medical professionals, therapists, or inspectors must seek consent before entering shared accommodation.
• If confidential discussions are required, an alternative private space will be provided.

10. Training and Staff Responsibilities

10.1 Staff Training

All staff must:

• Undergo training in shared accommodation management, covering privacy, dignity, and conflict resolution.
• Be trained in safeguarding, fire safety, and infection control.
• Be knowledgeable about residents’ rights and CIW accommodation regulations.

10.2 Staff Responsibilities

• Ensure residents’ needs are regularly reviewed.
• Monitor shared spaces for issues impacting health, safety, or well-being.
• Act promptly on complaints or requests regarding shared accommodation.

11. Related Policies

This policy should be read in conjunction with:

• Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy (CHW13)
• Health and Safety at Work Policy (CHW16)
• Risk Management and Assessment Policy (CHW18)
• Fire Safety and Evacuation Procedures (CHW20)
• Infection Prevention and Control Policy (CHW17)

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislative changes or operational needs require amendments.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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