Privacy

 
 

Introduction
This is the privacy policy of Independence and Diversity in Disability, referenced in this document as Peak Empower. All Peak Empower representatives (those fulfilling organisational, leadership or facilitator roles) are bound to this policy and it is strongly recommended that all members or associates adopt the principles of this document.
Peak Empower is committed to providing an effective service to its users. As a result of the nature of our work we will occasionally have to disclose information with the intention of improving access to/management of an adventure sport, leisure facility or similar service.

We are aware of different attitudes to disability, and acknowledge the need for flexible sensitivity when dealing with disability. Peak Empower will only ever disclose information to protect the interests of our service users, and we will not disclose information without your permission. It will not be possible to assure complete confidentiality in all cases, but in such cases the individual will be advised prior to any potential disclosure. Peak Empower cannot be held responsible for actions of the third party once this information is disclosed.

Peak Empower will endeavour to protect confidentiality. We define protection of confidentiality to mean no information regarding a service user which will allow their identification to be given directly or indirectly to any third party external to the Peak Empower team without that individual’s prior expressed consent to disclose.
The Peak Empower team are required to use discretion and care when discussing matters pertaining to a service user. Peak Empower must be diligent and do all possible to prevent indirect disclosure such as discussing confidential issues in public places.


Statistical Recording
Peak Empower will record service use for personal records only, and will endeavour to deliver statistics to third parties rather than case studies if appropriate. We are committed to the effective statistical recording to monitor service use, uptake and identify any issues arising from services and policies. We will endeavour to ensure statistical references given for reasons pertaining to sustainability will be produced in an anonymous format, to prevent unnecessary identification of service users.


Case records will be kept for teaching purposes, and with expressed written consent. For use under any other purpose, secondary consent will be required. Peak Empower are obliged to protect the confidentiality of these documents with due care and consideration. 
When Peak Empower agree to undertake action or any fact finding missions, the client must firstly give explicit consent, written or in another appropriate format. If the client at any point specifies nature of contact, including requesting phone calls, text messages or emails, Peak Empower must take additional care to ensure these are always adhered to. Peak Empower is not responsible for checking with clients that it is acceptable to contact them at a specific address. Unless otherwise specified, Peak Empower will assume it is appropriate to use given information.

Breaching Confidentiality
Peak Empower is aware that on occasion, there may be circumstances where individual workers feel they need to breach terms of pre-existing confidentiality agreements. Peak Empower is aware that breaching confidentiality can be lead to loss of trust, and recommend that this is avoided wherever possible. It is not always possible or safe to maintain confidentiality, but in case of a breach, Peak Empower recommend the following procedure is followed.

  1. Peak Empower worker to draw attention of those in directed position of authority.

  2. Peak Empower worker to discuss particulates of the case and explain the need for breaching confidentiality, alongside potential achievement. This should be documented clearly.

  3. Those in directed position of authority to discuss with Peak Empower worker options available and set circumstances. The decision is then made whether or not to breach confidentiality. In the event of a decision to breach, the following should be acknowledged:

a.    Peak Empower HR or someone of equivalent responsibility is to be briefed and will need to give approval. Confidentiality of the individual should not be breached at this    stage. If approval is not given, then this is the end of the matter. If approval is given:

b.    A report should be made, noting any action agreed.

Legislative Framework & Ensuring Policy Effectiveness
Peak Empower will monitor the policy to ensure it meets relevant statutory and legal requirements. A copy of this policy will be freely available to staff and will be reviewed regularly. All those associated with Peak Empower as a representative will be made aware of this policy.