Page 25 - Part-A

Information, Advice or Guidance

A ‘boundary’ is a limit of something, especially a subject or specific knowledge. In our
context, a boundary could be the limit of your experience or knowledge.

When dealing with clients you are likely to reach your own boundary in providing
information, advice or guidance. There are many reasons why you might reach your
boundary, such as:
• A limit of knowledge or experience

• A limit to the time you can spend with a client (for example, if you have a
fixed appointment time)

• If a client is asking something outside of your remit (for example, working
within a housing team and your client is asking for help outside of your
department).

Your boundaries will change as you progress through your career as you gain
experience, knowledge and as your team develops. It is vital that you can identify
when you are close to your boundary for any reason and take steps to avoid an issue.

Depending on your job role and the organisation that you work within, your governing
body may well have its own boundaries and professional conduct that you need to
follow.

For example, if you were working as a counsellor, their governing body (British
Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) has its own boundaries and
professional standards.

It is important that you find out these standards and boundaries and follow them
at all times.

! STOP AND THINK!

Think about your organisation, or an organisation you are
familiar with. What boundaries can you identify when you are
dealing with a client? Make notes in the space below.

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