Introduction

This policy applies to all staff and volunteers of Revolution and covers:

• Information about Revolution’s operations, plans, and finances.
• Details about other organizations.
• Personal data about individuals such as clients, volunteers, and staff, whether recorded electronically or on paper.

Confidentiality Commitment

Revolution is dedicated to maintaining the confidentiality of information concerning all individuals and organizational matters:

• All staff and volunteers are expected to respect confidentiality during and after their association with Revolution.
• This policy works in conjunction with the Data Protection Policy.

Guidelines on Handling Information

• Information Collection: Information will be collected from clients only when it serves their interests and enhances service delivery.
• Consent and Sharing: Personal information is shared externally only with the client’s consent, preferably written, unless there are exceptional circumstances.
• Internal Discussions: Necessary information may be shared internally with managers or colleagues to improve client service but must not be disclosed publicly or inappropriately.

Use of Information for Publicity

• Information that illustrates the impact of Revolution’s services may be used for publicity, but only with the client’s written consent. Identifiable details will be altered if consent cannot be obtained.

Limits to Confidentiality

Under certain circumstances, confidentiality may be breached:

• If there is a belief that a client could be a danger to themselves or others.
• In cases of suspected or known abuse.
• When a crime may have been committed.
• If required by law or in response to police inquiries.
• When a client may lack the mental capacity to make informed decisions.
• In cases of potential terrorist threats.
• Decisions to break confidentiality are made on a case-by-case basis with managerial consultation.

Access to Data

• The policy operates on a “need to know” basis; only relevant staff and volunteers will access specific information.
• Clients have the right to access their personal information and request a copy of this confidentiality policy.

Security Measures

• Strict security protocols are in place to prevent unauthorized access and disclosure.
• Information must not be discussed in open spaces where it can be overheard.

Policy Enforcement and Breaches

• Significant breaches of this policy are subject to disciplinary procedures under Revolution’s policies.
• Staff and volunteers must sign a confidentiality statement affirming their commitment to these guidelines.

Training and Policy Review

• All new staff and volunteers receive a copy of this policy during their induction.
• Regular training is provided to ensure proper application of confidentiality practices.
• The policy will be reviewed annually by the Chief Executive and the Board of Trustees, or in response to changes in legislation or operational failures.

Confidentiality Statement for Staff and Volunteers

When working at Revolution, access to confidential information is sometimes necessary. This includes:

• Personal information about clients or others involved with Revolution’s activities.
• Internal business details of Revolution.
• Personal details about staff or volunteers.

Responsibilities and Security Practices

• You are expected to maintain confidentiality and handle information responsibly.
• Do not disclose information without proper authorization or outside of authorized purposes.
• Use care when transmitting information to ensure security.
• Confidentiality obligations continue indefinitely after your tenure with Revolution ends.

Acknowledgement

• All staff and volunteers are required to read, understand, and accept their responsibilities under this policy and the Data Protection Act, where unauthorized access to data can constitute a criminal offense.