Privacy...

You’ll find my privacy policy here.  Please read through it and if there is anything you don’t understand or would like me to explain, please let me know.  By requesting counselling or by providing me with your personal details, you are consenting to my processing your data in the way that I state below.

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This policy only applies to data collected by me. Third party agents and websites, which are linked to me, are not covered by this policy.

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Privacy Statement and Data Protection
I am registered with the ICO (Information Commissioners Office) and this means I will tell you what data I am collecting from you and what I intend to do with it.

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What do I Keep and Why?
Your name and age. I will only work with you if you are age 16 or over and your name so we can get to know each other.

Your address, email & phone number – so we can arrange sessions and communicate effectively

GP details -If I was worried that you were at risk of harm then I may need to contact your doctor. Where possible I would discuss this with you first.

Will I share your data, and if so, why?
All counsellors are required to work with a Supervisor.  My work with my Supervisor is confidential and any identifying details are anonymised.

It is unlikely that I will share your data. I will not sell it on.  I may only share it if the following circumstances arise:
• If my notes are subpoenaed by a court of law.
• If you or anyone you tell me about, is at risk of harm I may have to pass this information on to your GP, the police or another appropriate service.
• If it is disclosed to me that drugs trafficking, money laundering or terrorist attacks are being planned or carried out (this is required by law).
• In the unfortunate event I can no longer work with you due to unforeseen circumstances, I have appointed a ‘Clinical Executor’ – they will have access to your details and will get in touch with you.

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How will I store your data?
Your details will be stored on my password protected business laptop and mobile phone. Only I have access to these devices.

Any handwritten details are kept in a locked filing cabinet and shredded when no longer required.  Session notes are anonymised.  

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How long will I store your data for and how will I dispose of it? 

I’ll delete any identifiable data and any correspondence within 5 years of no contact or updates from you.

I’ll delete my anonymised case notes, correspondence or any other material when no longer required in any event after 5 years. Handwritten notes or details will be shredded. 

You have a right to request to see, have amended or have destroyed any data I may keep about you. I will respond to any such request made within 30 days.

If you are not happy with the way I use your data you can complain to ICO at www.ico.org.uk or phone them on 0303 123 1113.

Consent
If you do not consent to me using your data in this way it is unlikely that I will be able to work / continue working with you.

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Changes to this policy

I may make changes to this policy occasionally however, if I make substantial changes, if we are working together, I will let you know by email.