1. Introduction

This privacy policy explains how I, Nicola Barraclough, a UK-based independant speech and language therapist, collect, use, and store your personal data when you access my services. I am committed to maintaining your privacy and complying with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the professional standards set by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT).

2. Data Collection

When you access my speech therapy services, I may collect and process the following personal data:

• Personal Information: Name, contact details (e.g., phone number, email address), and relevant medical or therapeutic history.
• Session Records: Notes and records from therapy sessions, including any assessments and progress updates.
• Consent Forms: Information regarding your consent for treatment and data handling.
• Other Relevant Information: Any additional details you provide that support your therapy.

3. Use of Personal Data

I use your personal data to:

• Provide speech and language therapy services tailored to your needs.
• Monitor and review therapy progress.
• Communicate with you regarding appointments or other therapy-related matters.
• Comply with professional and legal obligations.

4. Data Storage and Security

I take data security seriously and ensure that your information is:

• Stored securely in password-protected digital systems or locked physical files.
• Accessible only by me unless sharing is explicitly agreed upon with you or legally required.
• Retained only for as long as necessary. Typically, I retain records for seven years after the end of therapy in line with professional guidelines unless otherwise required by law.

5. Sharing of Data

Your personal data will only be shared:

• With your explicit consent, such as with other healthcare professionals involved in your care.
• When required by law, such as safeguarding or legal investigations.
• If it is necessary to protect your vital interests.

6. Your Rights

Under the UK GDPR, you have the following rights regarding your personal data:

• Access: You can request a copy of the data I hold about you.
• Rectification: You can request corrections to inaccurate or incomplete data.
• Erasure: You can request the deletion of your data, subject to legal or professional requirements for retention.
• Restriction: You can request restrictions on how your data is processed.
• Objection: You can object to data processing in certain circumstances.
• Portability: You can request your data in a portable format.

If you wish to exercise any of these rights, please contact me using the details below.

7. Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns about this privacy policy or how your data is handled, please contact:

8. Changes to This Policy

This privacy policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in legal or professional requirements. Any significant changes will be communicated to you.