Repairing Trust After a Safeguarding Disclosure
Navigating the ethical tension between protective duties and relational continuity.
The Ethical Paradox
Young people share sensitive information precisely because they value privacy. When a professional breaches this for safety reasons, it can trigger feelings of betrayal, powerlessness, and shame.
Research indicates that the absence of a trusting relationship is a primary driver of youth disengagement from education and mental health services.
The Statutory Mandate
Statutory Precedence
Acts such as the Children Act 1989 explicitly mandate information sharing when serious harm is suspected. These legal obligations override individual confidentiality agreements.
Working Together (2018)
Requires proactive sharing of critical data. GDPR should never be a barrier to child safety.
Professional Codes
BASW and HCPC mandate that professionals explain the limits of secrecy at the start of a relationship.
Internalised Stigma & Disengagement
Defensive Withdrawal
Young people may view a breach as a "punishment" for speaking out. This can lead to defensive disengagement, where they distance themselves from support to avoid further hurt.
Autonomy & Agency
Preserving a sense of agency is vital. Involving young people in *how* a disclosure is handled—even if you must share it—mitigates the sense of disempowerment.
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The Pathway to Repair
Transparency
Clearly explain the "Why." Acknowledge feelings without over-justifying the breach.
Trauma-Informed
Prioritise predictability. Allow space for the young person to say "I no longer trust you."
Restorative
Use facilitated circles to acknowledge harm and co-create new boundaries.
Contextual Considerations
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Identity & Trauma
Betrayal is perceived differently across cultures. In collectivist settings, disclosure can feel like family disloyalty. Systemic factors, such as historical racialised trauma with authorities, can make a safeguarding breach feel like a continuation of institutional failure.
Relational Safeguarding
A breach of confidentiality does not have to be the end of a relationship; it can be a turning point. By placing relational integrity at the heart of practice, we demonstrate that connections can survive rupture and be rebuilt with respect.
Mark Else
My experience ranges from running playgroups for pre-schoolers to managing complex safeguarding caseloads within both mainstream and SEMH provisions. In addition to having worked within the education sector since 2018, I am currently studying for a Level 6 Youth Work degree.
References
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