Privacy Policy

At Restore Counselling, your privacy is taken seriously. This Privacy Policy outlines how your personal information is collected, used, and protected when you visit this website or make contact for counselling services.

1. Who We Are

Restore Counselling is operated by Sophie Dunford, a qualified person-centred counsellor. If you have any questions about this policy, please contact:
📧 Email: sophiedunfordcounselling@gmail.com

2. What Personal Data We Collect

We may collect and process the following data:

Contact Information: When you email or use a contact form (e.g., name, email address).
Session Information: Notes and relevant personal information you choose to share in sessions.
Technical Data: IP address, browser type, and interaction data (e.g., when using the website), collected via cookies (see below).
Consultation Bookings: Details provided when booking a free consultation.

3. How We Use Your Information

Your information may be used to:

Communicate with you about appointments or services.
Provide therapeutic services.
Respond to inquiries and consultation requests.
Comply with legal and regulatory requirements.

Your data is never sold or shared for marketing purposes.

4. Lawful Basis for Processing

Under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), the lawful bases we rely on for processing personal data are:

Consent – when you contact us or provide information voluntarily.
Contract – for the provision of counselling services.
Legal obligation – to comply with regulatory or legal duties.
Legitimate interests – to respond to your queries and operate the service effectively.

5. Data Storage and Retention

Personal data is stored securely and confidentially.
Counselling records are retained for up to 7 years after your last session, in accordance with professional guidelines.
Emails and messages are deleted when no longer needed.

6. Sharing Your Data

Your data is kept confidential. It may only be shared if:

Required by law (e.g., safeguarding concerns, court orders).
You provide explicit consent for a referral or collaboration.
Necessary to protect your vital interests or the safety of others.

7. Your Data Protection Rights

You have the right to:

Access your personal data.
Request correction of inaccurate data.
Request erasure of data (subject to legal and ethical limits).
Object to or restrict certain types of data processing.
Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

8. Cookies

This website may use basic cookies to enhance functionality and security. You can control cookie preferences via your browser settings.

9. Security

Appropriate technical and organisational measures are in place to protect your data, including secure storage and access controls.

10. Third-Party Services

If you use third-party links (e.g., email, booking platforms), their privacy policies apply. Restore Counselling is not responsible for their practices.

Contact
If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please email:
📧 sophiedunfordcounselling@gmail.com