Privacy Statement and Data Protection
I am registered with the ICO (Information Commissioner's Office) registered number: ZB278042.
This means I need to tell you what data I am collecting from you and what I intend to do with it.
What data do I keep and why do I need it?
Name and address - this is basic information that helps me get to know you and understand where in the UK you are.
Email address and phone number/s - I use these details as a way of contacting you regarding your sessions. I will mainly use the method we have agreed on, but if I can’t reach you I will try a different address/number providing that we have agreed that it is ok for me to do so.
Emergency contact details - I collect details of an emergency contact in case you become unwell during our session and need help. I may need to call the emergency services and I would like to call your contact to let them know.
Doctors details - If I was worried that you were at risk then I may need to contact your doctor, if I could I would tell you I was going to do this.
Will I share your data and if I do, who will I share it with and for what purpose?
It is very unlikely that I will share your data. I will not sell it on or use it for unethical reasons. I may have to share it if my notes are subpoenaed by court. If you or anyone you tell me about is at harm or risk of harm I may have to pass this information on to your GP or the Police.
I have also appointed a Clinical Executor. In the unfortunate event I can no longer work with you they will have access to your details and will get in touch with you.
How will I store your data?
The details on the form that you may fill in on my website when you make an enquiry is sent to my email address. This and all other email correspondence will be kept until we finish working together then I will delete it.
I keep brief electronic notes that are stored on Google Drive using a unique reference number I assign to you. The devices I access this from are password protected. I keep another document with all reference numbers and full name on a paper document, this is kept in a locked filing cabinet. Your phone number may be kept in my mobile phone which is code protected until we finish working together then I will delete it.
How long will I store your data for and how will I dispose of it?
I’ll keep your session notes, your name and your unique code for 5 years which is the time frame my insurance company requests, after which I will delete your information.
I’ll shred your counselling agreement and emergency contact details form 1 month after our work finishes. I’ll delete your phone number from my mobile phone 1 month after our work finishes.
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 we will be able to work together.
