In 2024, multiple teams identified the need for additional, consistent, more frequent information sharing, and the ability to access or update information onsite. Information sharing and coordination between partners is restricted due to various privacy protections in place; Government organizations and child and family service providers that collect personal information must follow the rules set out in the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA), the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA) and the Child, Youth and Family Services Act (CYFSA).
Peel Housing Services and the Canadian Mental Health Association are considered Health Information Custodians and have additional privacy requirements from the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA) that need to be followed in any communication or reporting. A list of improvements implemented and required are as follows. To view the full report please click report.
a) Improvement: Consistent Information Sharing (implemented and ongoing)
In May 2024, CSWO led a collaborative enhancement of a Brampton Fire and Emergency Services (BFES) database to streamline coordination. CSWO initiated the Brampton Encampment Response Group that meets weekly to coordinate responses.
b) Improvement: Multi-Sector Collaboration (implemented and ongoing)
Collaborative groups were created to coordinate encampment efforts and include: the Peel Encampment Working Group and Steering Committee, the Brampton Encampment Response Group, and the Brampton Encampment Planning Working Group. Implementing Site Conferencing practices has increased collaboration and coordination between CSWO and Security Services with Peel Outreach and the Region of Peel Housing Services.
c) Improvement: Protection of Privacy Training (required)
Enhanced training for City staff is required to gain a stronger understanding of the privacy restrictions and documentation best practices of external partners. The Peel Encampment Working Group is beginning to draft a privacy protocol to ensure compliance with relevant privacy legislation while also providing information to encampment response partners.
d) Improvement: Mobile Access to Information (required)
CSWO is working with the Digital Innovation team to create a streamlined process for information sharing. This will enable partners to communicate and share information efficiently. Recommended documentation tools should be identified through the Encampment Policy and Joint Protocols.
