Privacy Policy

Last Updated: 12 July 2025

At ARC (Addiction Recovery Counselling), your privacy is important to us. We are committed to protecting the confidentiality and personal data of all individuals who engage with our services. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect your information in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR).

1. Who We Are

ARC is a London-based counselling practice supporting individuals and families affected by drug and alcohol addiction. Our services include one-to-one counselling, family support, and (soon) group therapy.

Contact us:
📞 +44 7943 035364
📧 [email protected]

2. What Personal Information We Collect

When you contact or engage with us, we may collect the following types of information:

• Full name
• Contact details (phone number, email address, postal address)
• Date of birth
• Emergency contact information
• Relevant medical and mental health history
• Session notes (maintained confidentially)
• Payment information (if applicable)

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Provide counselling and support services
• Maintain accurate records of your care
• Communicate with you about appointments and services
• Ensure your safety and wellbeing
• Comply with our legal and professional obligations

We will never sell, rent, or trade your information.

4. Legal Basis for Processing

We collect and process your information based on the following legal grounds:

• Consent – You have given clear permission for us to use your data for a specific purpose
• Contract – To deliver services you’ve requested
• Legal obligation – For example, keeping records for safeguarding or tax purposes
• Vital interests – In rare cases, to protect your life or the life of someone else
• Legitimate interest – To ensure quality and continuity of care

5. Confidentiality & Sharing Information

Your information is kept confidential and is only shared:

• With your explicit consent
• If there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others
• When required by law or a court order
• With your GP or another professional, only if agreed in advance (except in emergencies)

All counsellors at ARC are bound by professional codes of ethics and confidentiality.

6. How We Store and Protect Your Data

We store your data securely, either electronically (with encrypted storage and password protection) or in locked files. We retain your data for a minimum of 7 years after your final session, in line with professional and legal guidelines, after which it will be securely destroyed.

7. Your Rights

Under UK GDPR, you have the right to:

• Access the personal information we hold about you
• Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete data
• Request erasure of your data, in some circumstances
• Object to or restrict processing in certain situations
• Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) if you feel your data has been mishandled

8. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The latest version will always be available on request or through our communications.

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or how your data is handled, please contact us at:
📧 [email protected]
📞 +44 7943 035364