Privacy Statement and Data Protection
I am registered with the ICO (Information Commissioners Office). That 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 age - this is basic information that helps me get to know you.
Address, email address, phone number - I use this as a way of contacting you regarding your sessions. I will mainly use the method you first contacted me on but if I cannot reach you I will try a different method.
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 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. 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 within14 days.
How will I store your data?
The data on paper is kept in a locked filing cabinet. I do not make notes digitally. Your phone number will be kept in my business mobile phone which is passcode protected.
How long will I store your data for and how will I dispose of it?
I will keep your session notes, your name and your unique code for 4 years that is the time frame the BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy requests. I will shred this privacy consent document and your registration/contract form with your personal information on 1 month after our work finishes.
I will delete your phone number out of my mobile phone 1 month after our work finishes.
All emails from you will be deleted as soon as they are no longer needed and at least within 1 month of us finishing working together.
If you are not happy with the way I use your data you can complain to ICO at www.ico.org.uk
You can telephone them on 0303 123 1113.