CH224-Shared Accommodation Management Policy
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{{org_field_name}}
Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
Shared Accommodation Management Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to set out {{org_field_name}}’s approach to managing care and support in shared accommodation environments, where two or more individuals receive home care services while living together in the same residence. This includes supported living, house-sharing arrangements, and multiple occupancy care environments. The policy ensures that individuals’ rights to privacy, dignity, autonomy, and safety are maintained while promoting respectful and safe shared living. It complies with Regulation 10 (Dignity and Respect), Regulation 9 (Person-Centred Care), Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment), and Regulation 17 (Good Governance) of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all care and support staff, including management, permanent, temporary, and agency workers who provide services to people living in shared accommodation supported by {{org_field_name}}. It covers practical, ethical, and safeguarding considerations in managing shared living spaces and individual needs.
3. Related Policies
- CH07 – Person-Centred Care Policy
- CH08 – Dignity and Respect Policy
- CH11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
- CH13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
- CH16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
- CH18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
- CH30 – Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy
- CH42 – Communication and Engagement with Service Users and Families Policy
4. Policy Statement and Principles
{{org_field_name}} is committed to delivering high-quality, individualised care to all people supported in shared accommodation settings. We promote a culture of inclusion, mutual respect, and positive co-existence. Each individual’s care is designed around their personal needs and preferences while balancing the rights and responsibilities of all residents. Shared accommodation is managed in a way that promotes safety, autonomy, privacy, and a homely environment.
4.1 Person-Centred Living in Shared Settings
Each person in shared accommodation must have their own personalised care plan that reflects their lifestyle, health needs, daily routines, cultural preferences, relationships, and personal goals. Care plans must also acknowledge the dynamics of shared living, including agreed boundaries, routines, and shared responsibilities where appropriate. Plans are developed in consultation with the individual, their families, and relevant professionals, and are reviewed regularly.
4.2 Respect for Privacy and Personal Space
All individuals have a right to privacy and control over their own space within shared accommodation. Bedrooms must not be entered without consent unless there is an emergency or specific agreement in the care plan. Staff must knock and wait for a response before entering any private area. Shared bathrooms and communal areas must be used respectfully, with individual preferences and schedules taken into account. Staff must ensure that personal care, medication, and confidential discussions are conducted discreetly.
4.3 Safety, Hygiene, and Shared Responsibilities
Health and safety in shared settings is a priority. Staff are responsible for ensuring that shared spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms, and lounges are kept clean, safe, and fit for use. Risk assessments are carried out for all shared accommodation environments, and measures are implemented to manage hazards such as fire, infection, or equipment misuse. Where individuals participate in household tasks, they are supported to do so safely, with guidance that promotes independence and skills development.
4.4 Conflict Resolution and Mediation
Living with others may sometimes lead to disagreements or conflicts. Staff must be proactive in identifying early signs of tension and use de-escalation and mediation techniques where appropriate. Residents are supported to express their views respectfully and resolve disputes constructively. Serious incidents or ongoing concerns must be escalated to the Deputy Manager {{org_field_deputy_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_deputy_manager_last_name}} and may require multidisciplinary input or safeguarding interventions.
4.5 Safeguarding in Shared Accommodation
Living with others can increase vulnerability to abuse, exploitation, or coercion. Staff must remain vigilant and follow the CH13 – Safeguarding Policy in all interactions. Signs of financial, emotional, physical, or psychological abuse must be reported immediately. Particular attention must be paid to imbalances of power, manipulation, or restrictions imposed by other residents. Staff must ensure each individual’s voice is heard and their concerns taken seriously.
4.6 Compatibility and Group Dynamics
Where {{org_field_name}} is involved in placements or referrals into shared living environments, compatibility assessments are carried out to determine whether individuals are suited to cohabitation. This considers lifestyle, communication styles, routines, care needs, and behavioural factors. Placement decisions are made in consultation with social workers, families, advocates, and the individuals themselves. Ongoing reviews are conducted to monitor the success of the arrangement.
4.7 Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
All people supported in shared accommodation are treated with fairness and respect regardless of age, gender, disability, race, religion, sexuality, or background. Staff must be sensitive to cultural, religious, and dietary needs when managing shared spaces. Any form of discrimination, bullying, or marginalisation must be reported and addressed in line with CH30 – Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy.
4.8 Medication and Care Tasks in Shared Settings
Medication must be stored, administered, and recorded in a way that maintains confidentiality and safety. Each individual must have their own MAR chart, locked storage, and private medication routines. Staff must avoid conducting personal care tasks or administering medication in shared spaces unless it is safe, appropriate, and agreed in the care plan.
4.9 Staff Conduct and Boundaries
Staff must remain professional and impartial at all times. They must not take sides during resident disputes or allow group dynamics to influence care delivery. Staff must respect boundaries and promote equal attention to all residents. Personal relationships with individuals must remain appropriate and professional in accordance with CH28 – Staff Conduct and Code of Ethics Policy.
4.10 Record-Keeping and Confidentiality
All care records must be kept confidential and maintained in accordance with CH34 – Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy. Shared logbooks may be used for environmental or group updates but must not contain individual confidential information. Each individual has their own private file stored securely and only accessible to authorised personnel.
5. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in CQC guidance, legislation, or internal practice developments. The latest version is available at {{org_field_website}} or via {{org_field_email}} upon request. Updates will be communicated to all relevant staff and incorporated into ongoing training and supervision.
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}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.