Privacy Policy

WellNorth Privacy Policy 

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WELLNORTH COUNSELLING – PRIVACY POLICY 

Effective date: [Insert Date] 

Business name: WellNorth Counselling 

Counsellor: Stefan O’Neill, BACP Member 

Email: info@wellnorthcounselling.co.uk 

Website: www.wellnorthcounselling.co.uk 

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1. Introduction 

WellNorth Counselling is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information is handled safely and responsibly. This policy explains how your data is collected, stored, and used in accordance with the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018. 

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2. Information I Collect 

When you contact or work with WellNorth Counselling, I may collect: 

- Your name, contact details, and date of birth 

- Emergency contact / next of kin details 

- GP or relevant healthcare provider 

- Brief information about your reasons for counselling 

- Session notes (kept minimal, factual, and confidential) 

- Payment records 

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3. How I Use Your Information 

Your information is used to: 

- Arrange and provide counselling sessions 

- Maintain professional records 

- Communicate about appointments 

- Ensure safety and wellbeing in case of emergency 

- Meet ethical and legal obligations 

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4. Confidentiality 

All information shared in counselling is confidential, except where: 

- There is serious risk of harm to you or others 

- Disclosure is required by law 

- You consent to sharing information (e.g., GP) 

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5. Data Storage 

- Notes stored securely in password-protected digital files 

- Data retained for 7 years after counselling, then deleted 

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6. Your Rights 

You have the right to: 

- Access, correct, or request deletion of your data 

- Withdraw consent (which may end counselling) 

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7. ICO Registration 

WellNorth Counselling is registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). 

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8. Updates 

This policy may be updated periodically and will be available on the WellNorth Counselling website.