Your privacy matters

When you choose to work with me, you place a great deal of trust in how I handle your personal information. This policy explains what I collect, why I collect it, how it is stored, and the rights you have over your data. It is written in line with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

 

Who I am

I am Mark Goodhew, therapist and owner of Mark Goodhew Therapy. I am also the Data Controller for this business and I am registered as such with the ICO (Information COmmissioners Office). You can contact me directly at: markgoodhewtherapy@outlook.com

 

What Information I Collect

 

To provide safe and effective therapy, I may collect:

• Your name, contact details, and relevant background information.

• Notes from our sessions

• Emails or messages you send to me

 

I only collect information that is necessary for therapy or for contacting you about appointments.

 

How Your Information Is Stored

I take confidentiality and security extremely seriously.

 

Paper Records

• Session notes are kept securely in a locked cabinet.

• These records are retained for 6 years, after which they are securely shredded.

 

Emails & Digital Communication

• Emails sent to my dedicated Outlook account are kept for 2 years.

• After this period, they are permanently deleted.

• All electronic communication is protected with password secured systems.

• I do not store your information on any third party platforms for marketing.

 

Confidentiality

Everything you share with me is confidential.The only exceptions — required by English law — are:

• If there is a serious and immediate risk of harm to you or someone else

• If there is a safeguarding concern

• If I am legally required to disclose information (e.g., court order, terrorism, money laundering)

 

Where possible, I will always discuss this with you before taking any action.

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Security Camera

For the safety of clients and the premises, a security camera is installed at the main entrance door and resident parking area to the rear of the building.

• The cameras records video and audio footage.

• Footage is stored locally on an SD card.

• Recordings are used solely for security purposes and are not shared unless required by law.

• Footage is retained only for a limited period and then automatically overwritten or securely deleted.

• The camera does not monitor therapy sessions or any private areas.

 

Your Rights Under UK GDPR

You have the right to:

• Access the information I hold about you

• Request corrections to inaccurate information

• Request deletion of your data (where legally possible)

• Withdraw consent for me to hold or process your information

• Raise concerns with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)

 

If you wish to exercise any of these rights, simply contact me at markgoodhewtherapy@outlook.com.

 

From time to time, this policy may be updated to reflect changes in legislation or practice. The most current version will always be available on this website.