Confidentiality

Confidentiality is an essential principle in health and social care and forms the basis of all ways of working and codes of practice. The Data Protection Act 2018 is the UK’s implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Everyone responsible for using personal data has to follow strict rules called ‘data protection principles’. They must make sure the information is:

· used fairly, lawfully and transparently

· used for specified, explicit purposes

· used in a way that is adequate, relevant and limited to only what is necessary

· accurate and, where necessary, kept up to date

· kept for no longer than is necessary

· handled in a way that ensures appropriate security, including protection against unlawful or unauthorised processing, access, loss, destruction or damage

The basis of a good working relationship is trust. This is dependent on the individual being confident that personal information about them is treated confidentially. Information about someone must only be shared with others involved in their care and support on a ‘need-to-know’ basis. Any information should not usually be disclosed without the person’s informed consent. The circumstances when information must be shared even if the individual does not give consent are listed below:

· A person is likely to harm themselves

· A person has been, or is likely to be, involved in a serious crime

· A person is likely to harm others

· Your safety is placed at risk

· A child or vulnerable adult has suffered, or is at risk of suffering, significant harm.

Handling Information

We will have to document information relating to the people we are supporting, for example updating notes when we have provided care and support. Individuals have the right to view anything written about them. We will ensure all information about the individuals that we support is kept confident. We use an online system to update notes, and this is password protected.