Carers, consent and confidentiality

Carers often provide essential support, but confidentiality and consent still apply. The patient's wishes should remain central wherever possible.

Listen and check authority

You can usually receive information from a carer about missed medication, confusion, safety or appointments. Sharing information back requires consent, recorded proxy access, legal authority or another lawful basis under local policy.

A carer may be distressed or frustrated if confidentiality restricts what you can share. Acknowledge their role and explain the correct route for consent or proxy access.

Keep the patient involved

• Speak to the patient where possible.
• Check recorded consent or proxy arrangements.
• Record carer information and who provided it.
• Escalate if there are safeguarding or coercion concerns.

Carer involvement can support safe care, but it does not automatically remove confidentiality checks.

When unsure, record the facts and seek advice rather than making informal arrangements that might breach confidentiality or leave the patient unsupported.

Carer contact can help when the patient forgets symptoms or appointments. If family members disagree or request information without authority, escalate to a manager or clinician instead of resolving it at reception.

Carers may provide important observations about changes, risks and missed care. Staff can note this information even when confidentiality rules prevent sharing clinical details back.

Capacity and proxy access