CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY
The maintenance of confidentiality is the responsibility of Healthwatch Lancashire, although individual
employees and volunteers have an obligation to ensure that this responsibility is fulfilled. The
reputation of Healthwatch Lancashire could be compromise by breaking confidentiality.
Individual staff and volunteers have an obligation not to divulge any personal information relating to
people and organisations concerned with Healthwatch Lancashire unless authorised by the Chief
Executive Officer.
All records, held on a computer or paper files will be stored in a safe place and will not be accessible to
unauthorised unsupervised personnel.
In exceptional circumstances it may be necessary to break confidentiality.
These are:
1. When there is a danger to self or others
2. When not to do so would be breaking the law
3. When the safety of a child or vulnerable adult is at risk
However, in NO circumstances (including the above 1-3) should confidentiality be broken without
discussing it with the line manager.
Breach of confidentiality will be treated as a very serious manner and in all instances will be thoroughly
investigated.
If any member of staff or volunteer feels that information has been shared inappropriately or
confidentiality broken, this should be shared with the line manager.
If still dissatisfied, the member of staff or volunteer should invoke the grievance procedure.
Any person outside the organisation who feels a member of staff or volunteer has broken confidentiality
should invoke the complaints procedure.
If you have any doubts or queries about confidentiality take to the line manager.
16.09.14