Don't have a clue about the laws in the UK, but it is likely they are very similar regarding protected health information. Here in the USA laws vary somewhat from State to State, but medical records and mental health records, especially, are very protected. Without a consent signed by the client, I can not give any indication as to whether an individual is in treatment, or has been in treatment, much less any information regarding diagnosis, treatment, or treatment issues.    There are a couple of exceptions. In the event of a medical or psychiatric emergency, I can release information to insure the client's health, safety or well-being. But the information available to me must strongly suggest it is a bonafide emergency. The information released is the minimal amount of information required to get the person to some place where they can be evaluated for hospitalization.

Family dysfunction or distress that does not meet the level of imminent dangerousness to self or others on the part of the client would not be sufficient grounds to release information without a signed consent by the client.