Professional boundaries Volunteer Training Professional boundaries

What are boundaries? What are boundaries? A boundary can be thought of as a barrier that protects you. All healthy relationships have boundaries. Boundaries can provide structure and confidence and make you feel safe. Boundaries let people know how we want to be treated.

Personal boundaries Personal boundaries let other people know your needs and stop them from manipulating or using you or not respecting your personal space or wishes. Some signs that someone has stepped over your personal boundaries could be that you feel angry, drained or used, and find it hard to say ‘no’.

Self-Care and Personal Boundaries Many people put themselves last thinking that it is selfish to put their needs first. Actually, having healthy boundaries, saying ‘no’ sometimes and taking time for self-care is the best thing for everyone. An assertive person can clearly state their needs and keep to their personal boundaries. Self-care involves being assertive enough to take care of your own needs and saying no when you need or want to. Not doing this can lower self-esteem and affect wellbeing and peace of mind. When good boundaries are set it helps to build trust and self-confidence and it can teach others how to set boundaries for themselves

Professional Boundaries Boundaries for Safety Whether communicating with a client face-to-face, over the phone or online it is important not to share personal details such as address, last name, social media information, or similar facts that may identify you. Professional Boundaries Thinking about what the boundaries of the role are is an important first step. Thinking this through before you start volunteering will help you should a difficult situation arise. This will be a professional relationship therefore all language and behaviour should be respectful and the parameters of the relationship as set out in the role description should be adhered to.

Examples of Breaching Professional Boundaries • Discuss your own personal, marital or financial problems • Accept or give money or gifts • Ask for or give favours • Become emotionally over involved • Give out your personal address, phone number or email address • Accept or participate in any form of harassment or inappropriate behaviour including any bullying, racism or discrimination 14/11/2016 https://www.carerswa.asn.au/resources/Online-Training-Modules_Module-8_Boundaries.pdf

Signs of boundary violations What are some of the behaviours or warning signs that might indicate a staff member or volunteer is overstepping the professional boundary? Signs of boundary violations Whilst in isolation none of these behaviours may indicate a potential boundary violation is happening, they could be indicators of a potential problem. Indicators may include the staff member or volunteer: developing strong feelings for the client spending more time with this client than others having very personal conversations with the client receiving calls at home from the client receiving gifts doing things for a client rather than enabling the client to do it for themselves believing only they can offer the right services to the client physically touching the client. http://etraining.communitydoor.org.au/mod/page/view.php?id=56

The Benefits Of Good Personal And Professional Boundaries • All parties know where they stand and what to expect • Prevents mixed messages and misinterpretation of the relationship • People are empowered when the support ends, rather than missing a ‘friend’ • Prevents volunteer burnout

Case Study A volunteer is helping with a computer lesson, the client mentions that they often need help when they are at home. The volunteer gives the client their personal phone number so they can contact them when they need help. The client starts contacting the volunteer all of the time, saying they cannot manage without their help. The client starts calling on personal issues, the volunteer does not know what to do. Questions How could of this been prevented? What other ways could the client have been supported? What sort of dialogue could you use in this scenario?

Simple Rules for Keeping Boundaries Do not seek out a personal relationship with your clients, or with their family, friends, or support network. Have a balanced work and home life so your personal needs are met outside of work. Do not have a sexual relationship with clients, their family, friends or people in their support network. Do not introduce clients to your own family, friends, or support network e.g. don’t invite people home for family gatherings etc. Work and home should be kept separate. Do not socialise with clients or their family, friends outside of work hours. Your work finishes at the end of your shift. Do not supply or use alcohol, drugs or other illegal substances during work. Turn up on time for your shift. Don’t arrive late and leave early. People notice, including your clients. Organise your commitments and travel so that you have plenty of time.

More Simple Rules for Keeping Boundaries Do not smoke in front of clients, and do not lend or buy cigarettes for your clients. Encourage healthy lifestyle choices. Do not borrow, ask for or lend money to clients. Do not talk about your personal, financial or other life problems with clients. Do not ask for money, gifts, or special favours from your clients. Do not give advice outside of your skills and expertise – e.g. financial, marital, relationship, medical – refer on to qualified professionals for any support needed. Respect confidentiality and privacy – do not discuss information about your clients with your family or friends. Talk to staff and use peer supervision. Do not disclose personal information (yours or other workers or other clients) e.g. phone numbers, address, email, marital information. Do not criticize, complain about or discuss issues relating to other volunteers, staff, or your employer with your clients or their family. Work related issues and complaints need to be dealt with in the workplace. http://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2013/september/managing-professional-boundaries/

Working Boundaries – Staff & Volunteers There is a need for both staff and volunteers to have boundaries in the workplace. When you work at the centre you need to remember that relationships with other staff or volunteers need to be professional. Many of the boundary rules are similar to personal boundaries if you feel angry, drained or used, and find it hard to say ‘no’ your boundaries may be being overstepped. Friendships are not discouraged, but when people are working together remember that you are work colleagues and your relationship needs to be professional. If you feel you are being pressured into something you are not happy with, please talk to either one of the staff or manager. If you do have an issue with something or someone at the centre please speak to the manager or follow the grievance process (next slide).

East Creek Community Centre Grievance Process

Thoughts How can we improve on what we do? What ways can you prevent boundary issues? Does this raise any issues? Any questions?