This list is not exhaustive but gives some examples of crossing boundaries and some strategies to manage your own personal boundaries.

• Altering or changing any service times or shifts directly with the client or service provider. All communication must be reported to the office in the first instance.
• Introducing clients to your own family friends or support network, eg. Do not invite people home for family gatherings, etc. Work and home should be kept separate.
• Seeking out a personal relationship with your clients, their family, friends, or support network. Have a balanced work and home life so your personal needs are met outside of work.
• Giving advice outside your skills, expertise, and the position that you are employed to perform. Please refer back to the office when an appropriate person will be sought.
• Disclosing personal information (yours, or other workers or other clients) eg. Phone numbers, addresses, email, etc.
• Forming sexual relationships with the family, friends, or people in the customer's support network.
• Supplying or accepting alcohol, drugs, or other illegal substances during work hours.
• Borrowing anything from a client or loaning them anything personal of yours.
• While out shopping with clients, do not leave them to do your own shopping.
• Mentioning any personal finances, asking for money, accepting gifts/meals or special favours from your clients.
• Engaging in conversations with customers that could be considered criticism or complaining about other staff to customers. Refer customers to the office, if they need to submit a complaint or any feedback.
• Taking or making personal calls whilst with your customer. If an emergency, ensure that you are able to take the call where your customer cannot hear the conversation.
• Allowing clients or their families to drive your work or personal motor vehicle. Do not drive the client/family car.
• Do not provide a service or visit a client or their family out of hours or in your own time.

SUMMARY AND OTHER STRATEGIES:

• Work within organisational policies and procedures including professional uniform/clothing
• Contact your manager or the office for clarification. This is your best line to use for most situations/conversations etc.
• Follow the service plan and for any requests outside of the service plan, contact your manager.
• Respect confidentiality and privacy – do not discuss your client information with your family, friends or other clients. Talk to your manager if you need to discuss anything. This also applies to photos or videos of clients, these are not to be shared unless with the manager for an acceptable reason and once done, deleted.
• Consider whether clients have guardians to assist with personal decision-making or administrators to assist with financial decisions and consult as necessary.
• Let your manager know if a client discusses their will with you and wants to include you in any financial matters.
• Maintain proper demeanor at all times – no swearing or rude comments.
• Before touching your client always ask permission first.
• It's okay to use humor as long as it is not demeaning in any way and does not compromise being professional (e.g. directed at the client).
• Remember you are a guest in your customer’s home.
• If a customer’s behaviour makes you uncomfortable, discuss it with your manager.
• Turn up on time for your shift, Don’t arrive late or leave early. People notice, including your clients. Organise your commitments and travel to allow plenty of time.