Privacy Policy
1 Information Collected & Purpose
To deliver counselling safely and effectively, CORE adds the following to your records with your consent:
Contact details (to manage appointments and communications).
GP details, and—if provided—emergency contact, to support your wellbeing in emergencies.
Location details for online sessions, so we can respond appropriately in case of urgent issues.
Session summaries to maintain continuity of care and support professional supervision.
2 Data Storage & Retention
All records are stored securely—in encrypted digital storage—for seven years.
Information is not shared externally except:
With your explicit consent,
If there’s a risk of serious harm to you or others,
Or when legally required.
3 GDPR & Your Rights
In compliance with GDPR, you have the rights to:
Be informed how your data is used.
Access the data.
Request rectification of errors.
Request erasure (withdraw consent).
Request restriction of processing (with valid reason).
Request data portability, particularly for electronic data.
Object where applicable (noting CORE is not a public authority).
4 Clinical Supervision
Counsellors participate in regular professional supervision, where session content and risks may be discussed with qualified supervisors. Should a disclosure require wider action, CORE’s senior clinical team may contact you to work through decisions collaboratively.
5 Online & Security Guidelines
Online sessions must be conducted in a private, distraction-free environment; use of headphones is recommended.
If interruptions or lack of privacy occur, counsellors may pause or end the session; it’s still chargeable.
If technical issues arise:
The counsellor will attempt to reconnect.
If unresolved within 15 minutes, the counsellor may call you by phone to complete the session (as an exception).
6 Emergency & Safeguarding
If you’re in crisis or at risk of harm, please contact emergency services, your GP, or support lines (e.g., Samaritans at 116 123).
Counsellors are not available between sessions; all contact must go via office email.
7 Notifying Changes
Please notify CORE promptly of any changes to your contact details, GP, or personal circumstances by emailing the office.