What happens to any information we share with our workers?

• It is treated with respect.
• It is only shared with others if we agree to this.
• We are encouraged to share information with our families and others who are in the position to support us.  Our workers help us identify choices we might have on how to deal with things so that we still feel in control. We might decide we need to protect our families from our worries or feelings at times.  It works in a similar way to when our parents go to outside agencies for support without involving us because they want to protect us.

Are there any exceptions to this rule ?

• Yes - if it means keeping people safe.  When we tell our workers or volunteers something which makes them feel we or someone else might be at risk of harm, then they have to tell someone else who can help. This is likely to be someone in our family, a health worker, social worker or police officer.  Our workers support us through this process and we have a say in how the information is passed on.  When we are 16 years of age, as long as we are not on the Child Protection Register or on a Supervision Order, we control the information. The only exception to this would be if a child or someone vulnerable was at risk of being hurt.  For all other information we decide whether we want it passed on to others and our workers will support us with our choices.   

When do we have to move on from the service?

• When we reach 18 years of age.
• When our circumstances and our caring role changes.
• If the person we care for dies; we get bereavement support - the time for this is agreed following discussion with ourselves, our workers, our familes and advice from other appropriate support services.