Rachel’s GDPR Policy and Code of Ethics and Conduct
What are the ethical guidelines that Rachel follows in her coaching and data management?
Rachel is a graduate member of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and abides by its Code of Ethics and Conduct and Guidelines for Practitioners.
She collects, uses and stores data according to GDPR and, in the case of research, according to the Research Ethics guidelines of the British Psychological Society.
What personal data is held by Rachel when you have coaching?
As a client, you consent to provide sensitive personal information (also known as special category personal data) about, for example, your age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, disabilities, relationship and family history, and current relationship needs. Only information relevant to coaching will be recorded.
Why is this data collected?
Personal information may be used to tailor coaching to your needs. Keeping a record is useful to monitor goals and outcomes, and for Rachel to plan your coaching programme. It may be used to evaluate the effectiveness of the coaching and in end-of-coaching reflections and consideration of best practice.
If you are joining the mailing list, its purpose is to provide occasional information about special offers or events, and useful resources.
How is my data held?
Your data is saved in an electronic document or in paper note form during a consultation. Documents are stored securely on Rachel New’s computer and encrypted in the cloud according to the principles of GDPR; and written notes are stored securely in her home office, to which access is restricted to authorised persons only. A clinical psychologist, also a member of the BPS, has been designated to dispose of records on Rachel’s death. Shared Google documents may be used by both Rachel and client to ensure agreement on goals or action points.
Is the data shared with anyone?
Your data is never shared with anyone without your consent. Email addresses are held securely on a mailing list which is not shared with any third parties under any circumstances; your personal data (including email address, name, demographics and other contact details, as well as notes from consultations) is also never shared with any third parties.
If information is revealed that puts you in danger or is illegal, under certain circumstances Rachel may share it with the police or social services. You would be informed beforehand if this were a possibility.
If you agree to share any data for the purposes of research, the process will be outlined in a separate information and consent form, and will be in line with the ethical guidelines for research of the British Psychological Society.
What happens to my data in couples coaching?
If you are having couples coaching, you should not reveal any information to Rachel that your partner does not know. For example, if you are having an extra undisclosed, non-consensual relationship or have addictions, this needs to be disclosed before couples coaching can commence.
How is consent for collecting data given?
Providing a name and email address by joining the mailing list is by electronic opt-in or on paper at an event such as a workshop.
Consent for personal information is given via an online registration form before you start coaching.
How do I opt-out from Rachel’s mailing list?
Opting out can be done by sending Rachel an email requesting to unsubscribe, or clicking on the “unsubscribe” link in Mailchimp emails.
Can I see or edit my personal data?
Yes, you can ask to see your consultation notes and request to have them edited. You can change the information provided on electronic forms or shared Google documents yourself.
How long is my data kept for?
You can request to have some or all of your data deleted at any time. Your data will be deleted 7 years from when your consultations have finished, unless you request differently.