ACC is a local charity based in Littlehampton that offers affordable open-ended counselling to adults. Some of our counsellors are already fully qualified whilst others continue in training to the point of qualification and beyond.
What data do we hold?
Clients
We hold names, addresses, phone numbers and GP details of our clients together with any correspondence, information provided at assessment and dates attended counselling with a brief summary of the issues explored at each session. This information is stored securely password protected secure areas on our computer system. Client assessments held on the ACC computer or sent by e-mail are encoded and password protected. Other information on the computer is anonymised and used for statistical purposes only.
Staff
Staff contact details are shared within the organisation. Staff application details are stored securely.
How will the information be used and on what basis is this data held?
We only hold the data that has been given to us by our clients or staff members for the legitimate purposes of running this counselling service. No data is collected from our website.
Will the data be shared with any third parties?
Keeping your information confidential is an important aspect of therapeutic counselling. We will not share your information with other organisations or people, except in the following situations:
- Consent – Arun Counselling Centre may share your information with professionals or others whom you have requested or agreed we should contact.
- Serious harm or safeguarding – Arun Counselling Centre may share your information with the relevant professionals or authorities if we have reason to believe that this may prevent serious harm being caused to you or to another person.
- Compliance with law – Arun Counselling Centre may share your information where we are required to do so by law.
How long will the data be stored?
Personal contact details, client notes and other documentation are securely destroyed 6 years after you apply to the service.
What are my rights?
You have the right to ask us to provide a copy of the information held by us in our records. You also have the right to require us to correct any inaccuracies in your information. If you would like to do this, please ask your counsellor or contact the Director of Arun Counselling.
You may withdraw your consent for us to hold and process your data at any time. However, if you do this while actively receiving counselling at Arun Counselling Centre, your counselling would have to end. You can withdraw your consent by telling your counsellor or contacting the Director of Arun Counselling.
How can I make a complaint?
Any complaint should be made in writing to:
The Director
Arun Counselling Centre
Dove Lodge
49 Beach Road
Littlehampton
West Sussex
BN17 5JG
Telephone: 01903-714417
Email: director@aruncounselling.com
