Early Childhood Programs Toronto printable pdf download

Early Childhood Programs Toronto

Confidentiality and Information Sharing Guidelines

for Early Childhood Programs

A. Confidentiality

Parents/guardians should be aware that they have the authority to grant permission, or to

refuse to grant permission, for the sharing of relevant information regarding their child. Clear

procedures for ensuring confidentiality and the appropriate sharing of information in your

policy statements or parent handbook will help establish trusting relationships. Procedures

should be carefully explained and consistently followed, including a description of the

measures that may be taken if there is a breach of confidentiality or inappropriate information

sharing.

Procedures for ensuring confidentiality and the appropriate release of information should be

reviewed with all staff and be part of the personnel policy and/or staff handbook (sample Staff

Confidentiality Agreement attached). In addition, potential measures or disciplinary

repercussions if confidentiality is breached should be reviewed with staff to assist them to

understand their role and the expectations of their employer. This will underline the

seriousness of their responsibility and will help ensure breaches are limited.

When required by law, there may be instances when staff are required to share information

without parent permission (e.g. duty to report suspected child abuse, police investigations

etc.)

B. Informed Consent

Informed consent implies that when parents/guardians give consent to share information

about their child, they are aware of the following:

1. Who the information will be shared with

2. What specific information will be shared

3. The purpose of sharing the information

4. How the information will be used

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Early Childhood Programs Toronto