Safeguarding Policy

1. Our commitment

Tunza is committed to promoting the welfare and safety of all users, particularly vulnerable adults and children. Although Tunza is an introduction service and not a registered care provider, we take our safeguarding responsibilities seriously and operate in line with the Care Act 2014, the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, and statutory guidance from the Department of Health and Social Care.

2. Carer verification

All carers on Tunza must provide, before going live:

• A current Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) certificate
• Valid public liability insurance (minimum £1 million cover)
• Right-to-work evidence (passport, visa, or share code)
• Identity verification (photo ID)

Tunza administrators review all compliance documents. Carers are not made visible to care users until verification is complete. Carers who appear on the DBS barred lists are permanently removed from the platform.

3. Reporting a concern

If you have a safeguarding concern about a carer or care user on the Tunza platform, please report it immediately using the in-app reporting tool (available on any carer profile or within a conversation) or by emailing safeguarding@tunza.co.uk.

You may report anonymously. All reports are treated in strict confidence and reviewed by our designated safeguarding lead within 24 hours. We will not share your identity with the person you have reported about without your consent, except where required by law.

4. What happens after a report

Upon receiving a report, Tunza will:

• Acknowledge receipt within 24 hours
• Review the report and any relevant conversation logs or profile information
• Suspend the relevant account pending investigation where there is immediate risk
• Refer to the appropriate statutory authority (Local Authority, police, DBS) as required
• Take appropriate action including permanent removal from the platform where warranted

5. Limitations of our role

Tunza is an introduction service. We facilitate the introduction between care seekers and independent carers, but we do not supervise, manage, or employ carers. We cannot guarantee the behaviour of any individual introduced through our platform. Care seekers are strongly encouraged to:

• Meet the carer before agreeing to care arrangements
• Check references independently
• Involve a family member or trusted person in vetting
• Request to see original DBS certificates directly from the carer

6. Useful contacts