As an Independent psychotherapist working with children, adolescents and adults, I am committed

to complying with the terms of the new General Data Protection Regulations, and to the responsible

and secure use of any personal data I hold about you or your child. I have a legi=mate interest in

processing personal data in order to provide independent psychotherapeutic services, supervision,

training and consultation to individuals and organisations. The purpose of this statement is to let you

know what type of information I may collect and hold, why I collect this data, how long it is kept and

your rights regarding your personal data. I am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office

(ICO).

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1. Information about you

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1.1 I collect personal information from the point of referral. This informa=on may include contact

details and other relevant referring personal information. Over the course of my engagement I hold

case notes and copies of any reports I may write on your behalf, and relevant correspondence with

other services/agencies involved in your care and treatment. When my work concludes your data will

continue to be stored securely. The duration of storage will vary depending on your situation. Usually

this is for 7 years after you/your child reaches their majority, and then it will be destroyed. 7 years for

anyone who is over 18 from the outset of work.

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2. Use of this information

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2.1 The personal information I hold will be only used to provide you/your organisation with my

services. I will not share your personal details with any other person or organisation without your

knowledge and permission, unless there is a legal requirement e.g. if there is a child or adult

safeguarding issue, or a perceived risk of harm. A breach of confiden=ality is when a person shares

information with another in circumstances where it is reasonable to expect that the information will

be kept confidential.

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3. Security

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3.1 I will take all reasonable precautions to prevent the loss, misuse or alteration of your information

and to ensure that your data is processed and stored securely.

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3.2 If you’ve engaged me in a private capacity, communications in connection with my service may

be sent by e-mail. I will endeavour to use a secure email system when communicating sensitive

information. If your preference however is not to use/receive encrypted email communications for

reasons of ease of use and compatibility, I will require notice of this in writing. E-mail, unless

encrypted, is not a fully secure means of communication, but can be helpful for timely

communications. Whilst I endeavour to keep my electronic systems and communications protected

against viruses and other harmful effects, I cannot bear responsibility for all communications being

virus-free. In circumstances where I may be working with you as an independent clinician, via an

organisation or statutory service, I will often use the organisations own secure email system. Please

also consult their privacy notices for further information.

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4. Your rights over your personal data

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4.1 Under the new data protection regulations, you have the right to request to see the information I

hold about you/your organisation and also the right to request to correct, update - or in some

circumstances - delete the information I hold either as myself or within my sole trader name of

Psychotherapeutic Communications. If you have any concerns about my use of your data, or would

like to discuss any of the above, please contact me via: info@psych-comms.com and I will do my utmost to resolve any concerns you have, but if these are s=ll not resolved to your satisfaction, you

may choose to contact the ICO.

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