🚫 You Must Never
Start a sexual or romantic relationship with a client.
Borrow or lend money.
Accept large gifts.
Agree to be added to a will.
Become Power of Attorney.
Provide care “off the books”.
Move into permanent residence outside your contract.
These situations are safeguarding concerns and could lead to dismissal and referral to the DBS.
⚠️ Be Aware of Boundary Drift
Sometimes things change gradually.
Examples in live-in care:
You start spending all your downtime with the client socially.
The client says “you’re like my daughter/son now”.
The family ask you to stay on after your shift unpaid.
You begin making decisions outside the care plan.
You feel responsible for the person emotionally.
If you notice this happening — speak to your Care Manager early.
Early conversations prevent problems.
What To Do If…
…a client tells you they have romantic feelings for you
Stay calm and professional.
Do not reciprocate.
Inform your Care Manager immediately.
Record factually in daily notes.
…a family member offers you a large gift
Politely decline.
Explain company policy.
Inform your manager.
…you develop strong emotional feelings
Speak confidentially to your Care Manager.
Attend supervision.
Be open to a potential package move if needed.
This protects both you and the client.
…you are unsure if something crosses a line
If you’re thinking:
“Is this allowed?”
“Should I tell someone?”
“This feels a bit uncomfortable…”
That’s your cue to escalate.
Contact your Care Manager or use the whistleblowing process.
Why This Matters in Live-In Care
You work:
Alone
In someone’s private home
For long periods
With vulnerable people
That creates trust — but also risk.
Professional boundaries:
Protect clients from harm.
Protect you from allegations.
Protect your career.
Protect edyn.care’s reputation.
If in doubt — declare it.
Transparency is always safer than silence.