Throughout employment failure to observe this policy in full by any unauthorised disclosure of client information may be considered gross misconduct and will result in disciplinary procedures, leading to possible dismissal.  Unauthorised disclosure in any form outside of employment may also result in civil proceedings.

No employee may discuss or share in any communication form with any other employee, client family member or carer, employees of another organisation or member of the general public, any information about any Headway client, family member and/or carer, unless they have given their expressed permission to do so.

Client information may only be shared with other relevant individuals and organisations on a strict need-to-know principle where it is in the best interests, and supports the well-being of the client. It is therefore essential the client has agreed by signing the ‘Share of Information Agreement’ form. Volunteers will only ever be given adequate information to carry out their designated duties. If there is any doubt guidance must be sought by the appropriate line manager.

The only exception to this policy is where withholding any information may place the client at risk of harm to themselves or others. In such circumstances only senior staff may decide whom to inform.

Any request by a client, family member or carer, for a confidential discussion must be respected and facilitated at the most convenient time and place for both parties, ensuring privacy can be maintained at all times. Any recorded information of the discussion to be kept on file, if any, must be agreed at the end of the meeting.

No information may be shared by telephone to any unknown party at any time. All requests for client information must be in writing unless the request is from a known partner organisation. At all times client permission must be agreed prior to this.

Headway Luton Ltd recognises its’ responsibilities towards the Data Protection Act 1998 and the Access to Personal Files Act 1987 when storing information pertaining to employees, including volunteers and Trustees, clients and their families and/or carers.

CONFIDENTIALITY:    Aims and Objectives:

Headway Luton recognises the individuals’ right to confidentiality. The Confidentiality Policy aims to clearly define the responsibility of all employees, including volunteers, to observe and respect the need for confidentiality of client information regarding individuals’ personal circumstances or activities.

The objectives are to safeguard the well-being and best interests of the client, their families and/or carers, and to protect the professional integrity and good name of Headway Luton.

Communication of Information:

This policy applies to all employees, including volunteers and Trustees and relates to all personal information pertaining to the individual client, members of their family and/or carer including health problems, finances, relationships, or any other sensitive information that would infringe the individuals’ right to confidentiality.