As an SVC volunteer working closely with clients, their families and other professionals, you are put in a responsible position and will see and share day-to-day concerns and problems. It is important people feel able to trust and confide in you. This develops gradually and it will depend on the respect you show to them and to their confidences. You should not mention any personal details about clients outside your project.
Remember – there is no such thing as absolute confidentially. Information will be passed on when there is a legal responsibility to do so or a need to protect the person’s health and welfare. If you are in a situation where such information is likely to be disclosed, you should make the person aware of this.
Project Coordinators role involves working with confidential documents. They should be in a safe place and stored in the locked cupboard in the SVC office. Written materials should protect the identity of people concerned. If you are unsure please check with the SVC manager before the event.
