Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about Trusted Community and the membership process.
Trusted Community is an independent, standards-based framework designed to promote integrity, transparency, and accountability across various sectors. It provides a clear, evidence-based pathway for organisations to demonstrate their commitment to ethical practice. Membership is not merely a status — it is an active adherence to a set of core values that protect both the service provider and the public they serve.
No. Trusted Community is an independent framework and is not a regulator, legal body, or government-approved certification scheme. Membership does not constitute legal, regulatory, financial, or professional advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for independent due diligence.
You can apply by completing the full membership application form on our Apply page. You will need to provide supporting documentation including your legal registration details, evidence of your public presence, and a signed declaration that you have read and agreed to our Code of Conduct.
The full process typically takes between 21 and 28 calendar days. Stage 1 (initial review) takes up to 5 working days. Stage 2 (verification) takes up to 14 calendar days. After that your application is assessed and a formal decision is issued in writing.
You will receive a formal Notice of Decision explaining which standards were not met and the evidence basis for the decision. The notice will include instructions for the appeals process or the timeframe for re-application once the issues have been addressed.
Membership fees are charged only after your application has been approved. Fees cover the cost of assessment and ongoing administration — not marketing or guaranteed outcomes. Full fee details are provided during the application process.
Yes. Members of the public can submit a concern via our Public Concern Submission Form on the Contact page. Any concern must be accompanied by supporting evidence such as receipts, emails, or contracts. Concerns without evidence cannot be acted upon — this protects members from malicious or unfounded claims.
All concerns go through a three-stage investigation process. Depending on the severity of the breach, outcomes can range from a formal letter of guidance through to suspension or permanent removal from the framework. Serious breaches may be made public to protect the community.
Yes. Membership can be suspended or revoked if a member fails to maintain the required standards. Revocation due to a breach of the Code of Conduct does not entitle the member to a refund of fees.
All current members are listed on our Public Register, which is kept up to date. If a membership is suspended or revoked, the register will reflect that. You can search the register by name or sector.