Family Communication Policy

Purpose 

The purpose of this policy is to establish clear and professional boundaries between our staff and the families we serve. To protect the privacy and well-being of all parties, and to ensure professional relationships are maintained, all communication must be conducted through designated professional channels only.

Scope

This policy applies to all families and legal guardians receiving services, as well as all staff members of Revie’s Rule. It covers all social media platforms and personal communication methods, including but not limited to:

  • Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, and LinkedIn 

  • Messaging apps 

  • Personal email addresses

  • Personal phone numbers and text messaging

Policy 

1. Professional Communication Only: All communication between our staff and the families we serve must occur through official company channels. These included:

1. Revie’s Rule Hotline (when created)

2. advocate@reviesrule.org

3. Instagram chat group that is created for each family and assigned by a Revie’s Rule staff member.

4. Any secure, company- approved communication portals including reviesrule@gmail.com accounts.

2. No Contact on Personal Social Media: Families are prohibited from sending personal directed messages or invitations to connect with staff members on their personal social media account outside of the group chat that is created and assigned by a Revie’s Rule staff member. Similarly, staff are forbidden from initiating or accepting such requests. 

3. Confidentiality and Privacy: This policy helps protect the privacy of both families and staff. Posting information, photos, and updates about services, family members, or staff on social media without explicit written consent is strictly forbidden. 

4. Maintaining Professional Boundaries: Contact on personal social media blurs the line between a professional and a personal relationship, which can create ethical dilemmas and compromises the professional nature of our services. However, we are aware that most communication between our staff and the families we serve is on social media. This policy is to ensure all interactions remain transparent, appropriate, and professional.

Enforcement and Consequences

Compliance with this policy is mandatory. Violations will result in the following actions: 

  1. Initial Warning: The first time a violation occurs the family will receive a written notice explaining the policy and the need to end any personal contact with the employee. The family will be required to acknowledge their understanding of the policy in writing. 

  2. Service Termination: If, after the warning, further attempts are made to contact an employee via their personal social media or personal channels outside of the chat groups created by a Revie’s Rule staff member, Revie’s Rule reserves the right to terminate services immediately. This action is the final and is intended to protect the professional integrity of our services and the safety of our staff.