Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy – Safe Space Counsellors

Effective Date:

At Safe Space Counsellors, your privacy is of utmost importance. This Privacy Policy explains how your personal data is collected, stored, and used in accordance with UK data protection laws, including the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

1. Who We Are

Safe Space Counsellors is a private psychotherapy practice run by Balli Bassi, a qualified and accredited therapist providing professional counselling services in the UK.

2. What Information Is Collected

To provide effective counselling services, we may collect the following personal data:

Full name and contact details (email, phone number, address)
Emergency contact information
GP contact information
Date of birth
Health and medical history relevant to counselling
Session notes and assessments

3. How Your Information Is Used

Your information is used for the following purposes:

To provide safe, ethical, and effective counselling
To manage your appointments and communication
For supervision (on an anonymous basis)
To comply with legal and regulatory obligations

4. Lawful Basis for Processing

The lawful basis for processing your personal data is:

Contractual obligation – to provide the counselling service you have requested
Legitimate interest – to ensure safe and effective practice
Legal obligation – in cases where data must be disclosed by law (e.g. serious risk to self or others, child protection)

5. Data Storage and Security

Your data is stored securely on a password-protected personal computer with up-to-date antivirus and firewall protection.
Any paper notes are securely locked.
Your data will not be shared with third parties without your explicit consent unless required by law or ethical obligations.

6. How Long Your Data Is Kept

Client records are kept for 7 years from the end of therapy, in line with professional guidelines. After this period, data will be securely deleted or shredded.

7. Your Rights

Under UK data protection law, you have the right to:

Access your personal data
Request correction of inaccurate data
Request erasure of data (in certain circumstances)
Restrict processing
Object to processing
Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)

8. Confidentiality

Everything you share in therapy is kept confidential, with the following exceptions:

Where there is a risk of serious harm to you or others
Disclosure of abuse or risk of harm to a child or vulnerable adult
Legal obligation (e.g., court order)
For supervision (your identity will remain anonymous)

9. Contact Details

If you have any questions or wish to exercise your rights, please contact:

Balli Bassi
Safe Space Counsellors
Email: admin@safespacecounsellors.com
Phone: 07510 523009
ICO Registration Number: ZB891254

Safeguarding Policy

Safeguarding Policy for Safe Space Counsellors

1. Introduction

This policy outlines the commitment of Safe Space Counsellors to safeguarding clients and ensuring their safety, dignity, and well-being. It aligns with the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) safeguarding guidelines and relevant legal frameworks.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all counsellors, staff, and volunteers operating within Safe Space Counsellors. It covers in-person and online counselling services.

3. Legal Frameworks and Ethical Responsibilities

- Compliance with GDPR to ensure client data protection.

- Adherence to the Human Rights Act 1998, Children’s Act 1989 and 2004, and Care Act 2014.

- Commitment to NCPS ethical guidelines on confidentiality and safeguarding.

4. Recognising Safeguarding Concerns

- Identifying signs of abuse (physical, emotional, sexual, neglect, financial, etc.).

- Supporting vulnerable individuals, including children and adults at risk.

5. Confidentiality and Limits

- All client information remains strictly confidential, except in cases where safeguarding concerns arise.

- Disclosure may occur if there is a risk of harm to the client or others, in accordance with legal and ethical responsibilities.

- Clients will be informed about the limits of confidentiality during initial consultations.

6. Reporting Procedures

- Steps to follow when a safeguarding concern is identified.

- Referral to relevant safeguarding authorities such as social services or emergency services.

- Secure and accurate record-keeping of safeguarding concerns.

7. Preventative Measures

- Ongoing safeguarding training for counsellors and staff.

- Risk assessments for vulnerable clients.

- Clear policies for working with children and adults at risk.

8. Support for Clients

- Informing clients about safeguarding procedures and their rights.

- Providing access to external safeguarding services and resources.

9. Policy Review & Monitoring

- Annual review of safeguarding policies to ensure compliance with NCPS guidelines and legal requirements.

- Incorporating feedback from clients and staff for policy improvement.