S A B L E
Guardian Verification Service
Over the past two years, Sable Guardians has partnered with UK independent schools to deliver a comprehensive verification service, ensuring that appointed non-accredited guardians (i.e. private guardians not accredited by AEGIS or certified by the BSA) meet the required suitability standards.
This initiative helps schools fulfil their duty of care and ensures compliance with UK government regulations, Minimum Standards for Boarding,
Home Office changes regarding guardianship,
When parents nominate an independent non-accredited guardian
When parents choose to appoint an independent non-accredited guardian for their child, for example a family friend or relative, the school may request that additional checks are completed through Sable Guardians.
Process overview
1. Questionnaire
▪ The school sends a detailed questionnaire to the
▪ parent’s nominated guardian.
▪ Once completed, the form is forwarded to Sable Guardians for review and processing.
2. Required checks
▪ Sable Guardians carries out the necessary checks using the information provided in the questionnaire to verify compliance with government regulations.
▪ The appointed guardian is contacted, and an online interview is arranged to assess suitability.
▪ During the interview, the role and responsibilities of a guardian are clearly explained, with an emphasis on the importance of safeguarding. DBS checks for everyone over the age of 16 living in the household.
3. Objective
These checks are designed to:
▪ Safeguard children and promote their welfare.
▪ Ensure schools fulfil their legal obligations.
▪ Provide peace of mind to parents.
Service fee
A standard fee of £200 (ex VAT) will be invoiced for the Guardian Verification Service. Should a family subsequently choose to engage Sable Guardians for full guardianship services, this amount will be deducted from their guardianship fees.
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks
As part of this process, Sable Guardians can facilitate DBS checks for appointed guardians who are not immediate family members. DBS checks are government-regulated and required for roles involving trust and responsibility for young people.
DBS costs:
· Volunteer role: £14.70.
· Paid role: £59.90 (Prices accurate as of January 2025).
Please note:
· DBS checks are in addition to the standard service fee.
· Checks are carried out for all individuals over the age of 16 residing in the appointed guardian’s home.
Reporting
Once the on-line interview and all required checks have been completed, Sable Guardians compiles a comprehensive report summarising the findings. This report is submitted to the school, which will make the final decision regarding the guardian’s suitability.
An invoice for the service will be issued to the school once the report has been submitted.
Sable Guardians is committed to supporting schools, parents, and students by ensuring that all guardians whether accredited or independent meet the highest standards of care, safety, and compliance. Our Guardian Verification Service provides schools with the reassurance that their duty of care obligations are me and that every child is placed in a safe and suitable environme
If you have any questions about the Guardian Verification Service or would like further information on how we can assist your school or family, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team will be happy to provide guidance and support at every stage of the process.
