Privacy Notice

Your privacy is very important to me and I am committed to complying with the terms of the General Data Protection Regulation (EU/2016/679) (the GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 and to the responsible and secure use of your personal data.

In order to provide a professional counselling service, I have a legitimate interest in processing personal data and in this notice I will let you know what personal information I collect, how I use it and under what circumstances, if any, I would disclose it. I will also outline how long your personal data is kept, and your rights concerning your personal data.

I am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), reference :- ZB062291.

Information about you: I collect personal information from you when you enquire about my service and we agree to set up an initial consultation. This information includes contact details, information about your GP, your date of birth, your availability and other relevant personal information. Once you finish counselling, your records will be kept and stored securely for 5 years and then securely destroyed.

My use of your personal information: Your personal information will only be used to provide you with my services and to give you information about my services. I will not share your personal data with any other person or organisation without your knowledge and permission, unless there is a legal requirement to do so, for example if there is a child or adult safeguarding issue or where there is a perceived risk of serious harm to either yourself or to others.

Security:- I take the security of the data I hold about you very seriously and as such I take every effort to make sure it is kept secure. The hardware I use (a laptop and mobile) are encrypted devices and any electronic files are password protected. Paper records are held in a locked filing cabinet.

Communications in connection with my counselling service may be sent by text or e-mail. For ease of use, email communications will not be sent in an encrypted format and are therefore not a fully secure means of communication. Whilst I endeavour to keep my systems protected against viruses etc, I cannot bear responsibility for all communications being virus free.

I ask that you keep me informed (by email, telephone, or in writing) of any changes in your personal data so that I may always keep my records up to date.

Your rights over your personal data:- If you have any concerns about my use of your data and would like to see the information I hold about you, please email [email protected] and this will be arranged within 30 days.

I will do my best to resolve any concerns you have, but if these are not resolved to your satisfaction, you may choose to contact the Information Commissioner’s Office.