Communication between clients and agency staff is confidential and will not be released without the express authorization of the client. However, certain communication may be made or certain situations may occur for which confidentiality can’t be fully assured or does not exist. Should clients wish to meet virtually, it is the responsibility of YFP staff to ensure that all client information be kept secure and private, and that no other person can hear or see client information. However, it is impossible for staff to ensure total confidentiality within the client’s home or surroundings. Other such incidences would include:
- Situations in which agency staff believe that their client is a threat to himself/herself or others; or
- When the communications involve information regarding child abuse, child neglect, or abuse of the elderly; or
- When the communications involve information regarding inappropriate sexual contact with a minor child; or
- When the custody of a child becomes an issue before a court of this or another state; or
- When the client becomes a litigant in a court proceeding; or
- When agency staff discuss case work with their individual and/or group supervisor
In a psychoeducational support group setting, group members are also expected to maintain confidentiality, however facilitators cannot control the actions of group members. If group members break confidentiality, it may result in removal from the group.