Confidentiality & Release of Information

At Touchstone Family Association, your privacy is important to us. We are committed to keeping all information about you safe, secure, and confidential.

This page explains how we handle your personal information, what exceptions may apply, and how your consent plays a key role in protecting your privacy.

Your Right to Privacy

Any personal information you share with us is treated with the strictest confidentiality. This means:

• We do not share your information with others outside the Association without your knowledge and consent.
• We will ask for your permission before sharing information with people or organizations like schools, probation officers, or community services.

When Information May Be Shared Without Consent

There are a few important exceptions when we are legally or ethically required to share information, even without your consent:

• If your safety—or someone else’s—is at risk.
• If there is suspected abuse or neglect. All staff are legally required to report this to the appropriate authorities.
• If you have a social worker or legal guardian involved in your service, we are required to share relevant updates with them regularly.
• When quality assurance or supervision processes require internal access to your file. This is done under strict privacy standards.

We always aim to share the minimum information needed and only with those who need to know.

Consent Forms: What You’ll Be Asked to Sign

During your orientation to the program, we’ll go over a few important consent forms with you. These help ensure that you understand and control how your information is handled:

1. Consent to Service

• • Confirms that you agree to participate in services at Touchstone.
  • Informs you that we collect general data to help improve our programs (used anonymously for planning and reporting).

2. Release of Information

• • Details what information will be shared and with whom.
  • You will be asked to review and sign this form before any personal details are shared outside the Association.

3. Technology Consent 

• • If you choose to participatite in online services (i.e. conselling sessions over zoom) you will be asked to sign an additional technology consent form to ensure you are aware of both the benefits and downfalls of online services. 

You always have the right to ask questions or request clarification before signing. You may also choose not to give consent, although that may affect how we’re able to support you.