Safeguarding Dignity and Consent Statement

Safeguarding, Dignity & Consent Statement

Safeguarding, Dignity & Consent Statement

We work with older people in a way that respects dignity, privacy, independence, and choice.

1. Our approach

We aim to:

  • speak respectfully and clearly
  • avoid pressure selling
  • explain options in plain English
  • support people to make their own decisions
  • involve family, carers, advocates, or facility staff where the client wants that support
  • protect privacy and personal information
  • stop work if consent or authority is unclear
  • recommend specialist help where needed

2. Consent matters

We will seek consent before:

  • accessing a device
  • opening accounts, apps, emails, photos, documents, cloud storage, or online services
  • changing settings
  • installing or deleting software
  • making purchases
  • contacting third-party providers
  • preparing or sharing reports
  • taking photos or screenshots

3. Support people are welcome

Clients may choose to have another person present, such as:

  • family member
  • friend
  • carer
  • advocate
  • guardian
  • attorney
  • aged care staff member

4. Financial and account safety

We will not pressure clients to buy products or subscriptions.

We will not ask for unnecessary access to banking, MyGov, Medicare, Centrelink, superannuation, medical portals, or other sensitive accounts.

If support with a sensitive account is needed, we will proceed carefully and only with clear consent.

5. Concerns about harm or coercion

If we believe a person may be at risk of serious harm, abuse, coercion, fraud, or exploitation, we may pause the service and seek appropriate guidance.

Where required or permitted by law, we may contact relevant authorities, emergency services, or appropriate support services.

6. Aged care settings

When working in aged care settings, we respect the resident’s privacy, preferences, and consent, and we follow reasonable facility requirements.

The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission describes the importance of dignity, respect, choice, privacy, and safety in aged care.

Reference: https://www.agedcarequality.gov.au/providers/quality-standards