Privacy Policy

1. Third Party Privacy Statement

I am committed to safeguarding your privacy and protecting your personal information. Your information will not be shared with others. However, I may anonymously discuss aspects of our work during supervision to ensure the highest standard of coaching. These discussions do not include any details that could personally identify you. If it is deemed beneficial to share information with another therapist, this will only occur with your explicit permission, obtained in advance on each occasion. Please note, there are three lawful exceptions where information may be disclosed without your consent: compliance with court orders, concerns regarding child protection, or situations involving imminent risk to life.

2. Lawful Basis for Processing Your Data

I process your data only to fulfil my role as a safe, ethical, and effective Coach, in compliance with GDPR 2018. As both 'data controller' and 'data processor,' I am registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (www.ico.org.uk) and adhere to their policies regarding data protection.

Disclaimer: Your Role in Protecting Your Own Privacy

  • The privacy of communications over the Internet cannot be completely guaranteed.

  • You share information online at your own risk.

  • You are responsible for safeguarding your data privacy, including email choices and password protection.

3. How I Obtain Information About You

I collect information from:

  • Initial contact via my website's contact form, phone, or email.

  • In-person sessions.

Initial Free Consultation

During the initial free consultation, we will determine if I can assist you and if you would like to begin coaching with me. Your contact information is kept only if we decide to start working together.

4. Your Privacy in Our Teamwork Together

Email Correspondence

After scheduling an initial appointment, I will send a confirmation email detailing the relevant practicalities.

5. Obtaining Information from Third Parties

With your prior consent, I may contact other healthcare providers involved in your care to ensure that you receive appropriate, safe, and effective therapy.

6. Information Collected About You

Personal Information

  • Your name and contact details.

  • Emergency contact information (e.g. next of kin).

Sensitive Information

Sensitive information may include details about your health, relationships, lifestyle, employment, and cultural background. Collecting this information helps ensure that the service provided is responsive to your specific needs and circumstances.

7. Transparency of record-keeping

Records include:

  • Notes taken before, during, or after sessions, including session plans and evaluations.

  • Emails you send to me.

  • Emails I send to you.

8. Data Security Measures

Paper Information

  • Minimal use of printed information.

  • Secure storage in a locked cabinet.

Electronic Information

  • Devices are password-protected with strong passwords changed regularly.

  • No personally identifying information is stored on mobile phones.

  • Some information is stored on a password-protected laptop.

9. Legal Exceptions to Consent

There are specific situations where I may share your information without your consent:

  • Court Order: If required to disclose data by law.

  • Child Protection: If there are concerns about a child's welfare.

  • Risk to Self or Others: If there is an imminent risk of serious harm to yourself or others, or if you are involved in serious criminal activity or are experiencing active suicidal thoughts

10. Data Retention

I retain data for seven years, after which it will be destroyed.

11. Your Individual Rights

Access

You have the right to request details of the personal information I hold about you.

Rectification

I will make the necessary changes if any information I hold is incorrect, incomplete, or needs updating.

Portability

You are welcome to share any reports or letters generated during our work with others.

Complaints

If you believe your GDPR rights have been infringed, or if the processing of your data does not comply with lawful regulations, you can contact the Information Commissioner's Office at 0303 123 1113 (www.ico.org.uk).

12. Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns about how your data is processed or shared, please contact me - dbattersbyACT@gmail.com or 07824 508767.