We cannot rely on others for our own due diligence
The tragic case of Jordan Heikamp’s death in Toronto in 1997, highlights a critical lesson for those working in helping professions: the importance of direct involvement and accountability in safeguarding individuals. Jordan’s case, where multiple professionals and service providers were involved, yet failed to intervene in time to prevent his death from chronic starvation, highlights the danger in relying on others for assessments and decision-making.
The inquiry into Jordan’s death revealed that many professionals, nurses, shelter staff, and social workers, were involved with his case but did not interact directly with him. Many professionals depended on information provided by others, particularly Jordan’s mother, rather than conducting their own independent assessments. This practice failed to protect Jordan and serves as a painful reminder that in order to ensure the safety of those we serve, we cannot delegate our due diligence to others. Direct contact is necessary.
The lesson extends beyond client care to anyone working in a helping profession. Professionals must be proactive in their assessments, engage in direct conversations with clients, and avoid relying on second-hand information. Effective information sharing and clear communication are essential not just for the safety of those we serve, but also for the safety and accountability of professionals themselves.
In the context of workplace safety, this means that conversations about violence, harassment, and creating safer environments for helping professionals should not happen in isolation. These discussions need to be inclusive and involve those directly impacted, clients or professionals themselves. Silence or avoidance of tough conversations is not a solution; it’s often driven by fear or discomfort, which can lead to neglect or oversight.
The example of my malfunctioning alarm and the delayed response from the Department in my situation illustrates how easily critical information can be overlooked. Professionals need to ask themselves: how can we ensure someone’s safety if we don’t directly engage with them or confirm the information ourselves? To effectively ensure someone’s safety, that person has to be directly involved in the discussions and planning.
In conclusion, the tragedy of Jordan Heikamp’s death reminds us that effective service and care depend on direct communication. Safety occurs with transparency, and open dialogue, not in isolation from those involved.
