You go to discuss the incident and the client's claims with your supervisor. As you retell the incident, it is clear that your supervisor is not comfortable. You ask your supervisor for advice on the best course of action, considering the organisational policy, code of practice and any relevant legislation. Rather than taking the matter seriously, the supervisor is dismissive. The supervisor reminds you that this is a serious allegation against a long serving member of staff (and close friend to both of you) and that the best thing to do is not to pursue the matter any further.

QUESTION 1:

Explain what responsibility and action you would need to take considering your supervisor's advice to not pursue the matter any further. Include in your answer the reasons why you have chosen this course of action, including your legal and/or ethical responsibilities to the client and as a professional.

QUESTION 2:

Explain how the supervisor's lack of action might affect the work practice of yourself and other support workers in the organisation.