Service Eligibility Policy

Wickerbys C.I.C.

1. Purpose

This Service Eligibility Policy sets out the criteria and principles governing access to support, programmes, and services delivered by Wickerbys C.I.C. (“the Company”).

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that services are delivered fairly, transparently, lawfully, and in accordance with the Company’s community objectives, funding conditions, and operational capacity.

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2. General Principles

Wickerbys C.I.C. is committed to:

• Providing services in line with its stated community purpose.

• Acting in accordance with equality and non-discrimination legislation.

• Allocating limited resources in a fair and proportionate manner.

• Prioritising individuals or groups based on need, risk, and funding requirements.

• Operating within safeguarding, health and safety, and regulatory frameworks.

All services are subject to funding availability, staffing levels, and organisational capacity.

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3. Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for services may be determined by one or more of the following:

• Geographic location

• Age requirements

• Referral pathway (e.g., professional referral where required)

• Demonstrated level of need

• Alignment with specific funded project criteria

• Risk assessment outcomes

• Availability of spaces or capacity limits

• Compliance with safeguarding requirements

Specific programmes or services may have additional eligibility criteria, which will be communicated where applicable.

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4. Assessment and Prioritisation

Where demand exceeds capacity, Wickerbys C.I.C. reserves the right to:

• Operate waiting lists

• Prioritise individuals based on urgency or vulnerability

• Apply funding-specific eligibility restrictions

• Limit frequency or duration of support

Assessments may be conducted to determine suitability and safety. The Company is not obligated to provide reasons beyond general eligibility explanations, particularly where safeguarding or confidentiality concerns apply.

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5. Right to Refuse or Withdraw Services

Wickerbys C.I.C. reserves the right to refuse, suspend, or withdraw services where:

• Eligibility criteria are not met

• Funding restrictions prevent provision

• Behaviour poses a risk to staff, volunteers, or other service users

• There is misuse of services or breach of organisational policies

• Safeguarding concerns require alternative action

Any such decisions will be made reasonably and in line with applicable law and safeguarding obligations.

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6. Equality and Non-Discrimination

Wickerbys C.I.C. is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. No individual will be discriminated against on the basis of protected characteristics as defined by applicable legislation.

However, targeted services may be delivered where funding is specifically allocated for particular groups or needs.

 

7. Review of Eligibility

Eligibility criteria may be amended in response to:

• Changes in funding conditions

• Regulatory updates

• Operational capacity

• Community need assessments

 

The Company reserves the right to review this policy at any time.

 

Reviewed and effective from: 12/2/2026