Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator
Unit: Unit 2.5: Work in partnership
Learning outcome: Understand recording, storing and sharing information in relation to partnership working
Assessment criteria: Analyse the potential tension between maintaining confidentiality and the need to disclose information: when poor practice is identified, where a child is at risk, when it is suspected that a crime has been/may be committed
There is potential tension between maintaining a child’s or family’s confidentiality and the need to disclose information in an Early Years setting. Examples of situations that may lead to such dilemmas can include when poor practice is identified, where a child is at risk and when it is suspected that a crime has been/may be committed.
On one hand, it is important to maintain confidentiality in order to build trust with families and protect their privacy. On the other hand, there may be times when it is necessary to disclose information in order to safeguard children.
It is important to strike a balance between these two considerations. In general, information should only be shared on a need-to-know basis and with the consent of the parent/carer. If there are concerns about a child’s welfare, then it may be necessary to share information with relevant professionals in order to ensure that the child is protected.
However, it is also important to remember that families should be involved in decision-making about their child’s care and should not be left out of the loop. Parents should be consulted before making any decisions if there are concerns about a child’s welfare.
Ultimately, the best interests of the child should always be paramount. If there is any doubt, it is better to err on the side of caution and disclose information than to keep it confidential.