I am dedicated to offering families the highest standard of support. As part of this commitment, I keep records about you and the services provided in line with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulations). These records may include telephone consultations, correspondence, referral forms, assessment details, session and meeting notes, referrals to other agencies, and any commissioned reports. If you choose to proceed with therapy after an initial enquiry, you will receive a consent form. Your therapist will answer any questions to ensure you fully understand the form, which must be signed before therapy begins, indicating your agreement to the collection and storage of personal information.
Collected data will be securely stored by me – Bistra Slavkova. Session notes will be maintained to help me recall key session details.
Data Security Measures
All electronic records, including enquiries, referral forms, consent forms, and session notes, are stored on password-protected devices. Handwritten notes are kept in a locked filing box.
Data Retention Period
Records are retained securely until the client (child) reaches the age of 18 plus five years. After this period, records will be securely destroyed.
Data Sharing
Your basic details (name and contact information) will be accessible to me only. Information may also be shared with your therapist or other professionals with your verbal or written consent. Data will not be shared with third parties without your consent, unless required by law.
Access to Your Data
Under GDPR, you or your child’s legal guardian have rights regarding the information Bistra Slavkova Therapy holds. More details on your rights can be found here.
Withdrawing Consent
If you wish to withdraw consent for storing data, you must submit a written request. A response outlining the next steps will be provided. Please note that withdrawing consent will result in the end of therapeutic support.
Requesting Records
You can request a copy of your records in writing, which will be provided within 40 days.
Confidentiality
I maintain confidentiality to foster a safe therapeutic environment. However, session details may be discussed with a clinical supervisor. Parents/carers will be updated on observations with the child or young person’s consent during review meetings.
Safeguarding
If I believe a child or young person is at risk of harm, I will discuss concerns with parents/carers unless it is unsafe to do so. I may liaise with a school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead or inform children’s social care as necessary.
Complaints
If you are dissatisfied with my services, please first address your concerns with your me. Complaints about data handling can also be directed to the Information Commissioner’s Office at https://ico.org.uk/global/contact-us/.
Statement last reviewed: November 2024
Safeguarding Policy
Bistra Slavkova Therapy is a private practice directed by Bistra Slavkova.
Purpose of the Policy
- Protect children and young people receiving therapy.
- Guide directors and associates on child protection principles.
- Clarify safeguarding responsibilities across various settings.
I believe every child and young person has the right to safety and protection from harm. I am committed to fostering their welfare in partnership with them, their families, and other agencies.
My Commitments
- Value, listen to, and respect children.
- Clearly communicate safeguarding responsibilities and confidentiality limits.
- Support directors and associates through supervision and management.
- Follow safe recruitment processes.
- Share concerns with relevant agencies, involving parents and children appropriately.
Procedures for Safeguarding Concerns
For privately commissioned work:
- Discuss concerns with the parent/carer unless unsafe.
- Inform the child about information-sharing plans.
- Collaborate with the clinical Director (Bistra Slavkova) to determine next steps.
- Share information with relevant agencies, such as children’s social care, when required.
For concerns arising in external settings (e.g., schools):
- Address concerns within the organisation’s safeguarding framework (e.g., liaising with the school’s safeguarding lead).
- Inform the child and parents about information-sharing plans.
- Notify the clinical Director of actions taken.
- Share information with outside agencies as necessary.
Policy last reviewed: November 2024