SNAP’s Confidentiality - Policy Statement

The identity of and all information provided by clients of SNAP shall be treated as confidential except in the case of a “serious criminal offence”, “endangerment of a child” or the need to protect the safety or anonymity of a SNAP volunteer.

If it comes to the attention of a volunteer that such an incident has been or is about to be committed, the matter shall be reported to the help-line supervisor or deputy. The supervisor or deputy shall decide if it is necessary to convey the matter to the police or other statutory body, as appropriate.

In the unlikely event that the supervisor or deputy is unavailable, the volunteer will be obliged to make a decision as to whether the situation demands breaching the rule of confidentiality. A full report of the situation must be given to the supervisor as soon as practicable, afterwards.

A “serious criminal offence” shall be deemed to be terrorism; murder; a grave threat to life, either the client’s own or that of another person; damage to property which could imperil life.

“Endangerment of a child” shall mean actual violence or the threat of violence toward a child or any action that could damage the well being of a child. If it is suspected that a child is in any kind of danger, SNAP has a duty to report such matters to Social Services.

Charity Commission Information

Charity Name ST NEOTS ABUSE PROJECT (SNAP) Registered No. 1082185 has been entered in the Charity Commission’s Central Register of Charities since 29 August 2000.

SNAP Object Description:

1)    To relieve the distress and suffering of victims of domestic violence within Cambridgeshire generally and in particular the St Neots area (the area of benefit), predominantly but not exclusively by the provision of advice, support and assistance via a telephone help-line.

2)    To advance the education of the public in matters relating to violence and abuse in order to raise awareness of the needs of abuse victims and to promote non-violent behaviour within the area of benefit.