Can We Talk?

The most important boundary CASA volunteers must maintain is keeping confidential information confidential. Many prospective volunteers tell me, "Oh, I won't have a problem keeping information confidential." And I smile my knowing smile, because I realize just how easy it is to breach confidentiality.

Let's begin this discussion by acknowledging that, as volunteers, we're all well-meaning. We don't ever intend to make a mistake. But mistakes still find their way to our doorstep.

The maintenance of confidentiality begins with an intention to keep the information to ourselves. Next, we must put systems in place to safeguard the information. Then, we must keep on our toes, being on the lookout for those who would try to get the information we have.

How can you do this?

1. Commit yourself to confidentiality. This commitment begins with an acknowledgment that, for the children we serve, the right to privacy is fundamental. It's one of the few aspects of our work that we can control, and we are honor-bound to protect their identity and privacy at all costs.

2. Be thoughtful about exactly HOW you will safeguard the information you have. Where will you keep your file? What will you do if your spouse (if they are not a CASA volunteer) begins asking you questions about your case? Will you accept phone calls in high-traffic areas, or call back when you are alone? Think about what you will say if someone unrelated to the case asks you a question about it. I have a pat answer already scripted out in my head, "I am really sorry, Bob, but I'm required by the court to keep that information confidential."

3. Be vigilant about protecting your case information. Don't fall into the "I'll show you mine if you show me yours," trap. Refer back to the Confidentiality Flowchart in your CASA Training Manual (see page V7-24). The very first question on the flowchart is, "Is it in the child's best interest to share this information?" If it's not, keep it to yourself.

Don't become so comfortable that you think a breach of confidentiality could not possibly happen to you. In my experience, that is the exact moment that it does. Think about the following:

What will you do if you run into the foster family at Wal-Mart?

Where is a good place to discuss the case in the courthouse?

Is the seat of your car a good place to keep the file while you run errands after court?

What will you do if a teacher asks you what is going on in the child's home while you are collecting grade information?

It bears mentioning that even this website is not an appropriate place to discuss specific case information. If you have a question or concern about your case, please contact your Advocate Coordinator or myself directly.