Privacy Policy

At Choose Your Way, your privacy and trust are really important to me. This Privacy Policy explains how I collect, use, and protect your personal information in line with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR).

1. Who I Am

My name is Hannah, and I run Choose Your Way, offering coaching and counselling services both online and in person. I am the data controller for the information you provide, and I’m registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).

If you have any questions about how your data is handled, you can contact me at:

📧 Email: hannah@chooseyourway.co.uk
📞 Phone: 07949 251741

2. What Information I Collect

I may collect and store the following personal data when you work with me:

  • Your name

  • Email address

  • Phone number

  • Home address

  • Emergency contact details

  • GP details (optional)

  • Brief session notes

This information is provided by you directly, usually via a Google Form, email, or during our sessions.

3. Special Category Data

Some of the data you may provide (such as GP details or personal information shared in sessions) is classed as special category data under GDPR. I only collect this information with your explicit consent, and it’s stored securely and confidentially.

4. Why I Collect Your Data

I collect and use your information to:

  • Deliver coaching or counselling sessions

  • Communicate with you about appointments or updates

  • Ensure your safety and wellbeing

  • Manage billing and payments

  • Meet professional, legal, and safeguarding responsibilities

5. How Your Data is Stored and Protected

Your information is stored using secure, GDPR-compliant tools including:

  • Google Workspace (Gmail, Google Drive, Sheets)

  • A work-only mobile phone

  • Two-factor authentication and strong passwords

Access to your data is restricted to me (Hannah), and I never store your information on shared or unsecured devices.

6. How Long I Keep Your Data

I retain client data for up to 6 years after our last session. This helps me comply with professional guidance and legal requirements.

You can request access to your data or ask for it to be deleted at any time.

7. Your Rights Under GDPR

You have the right to:

  • Access the data I hold about you

  • Correct or update your personal information

  • Request deletion of your data

  • Withdraw your consent at any time

  • Object to or restrict how your data is used

  • Complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) if you’re unhappy with how your data is handled

📩 To make any requests, just email me at hannah@chooseyourway.co.uk.

8. Third-Party Services

To run my business and deliver services, I use a few trusted third-party providers who are GDPR-compliant:

  • Google Workspace (email, calendar, storage)

  • Calendly (session booking)

  • Stripe & FreeAgent (payments and accounting)

  • Google Meet (video calls)

  • WhatsApp (communication, if you choose to use it)

  • Google Analytics (anonymous website usage data)

These services only access your data to the extent needed to support me in providing my services. I never sell or rent your data.

9. International Data Transfers

Some of the services I use (like Google or Stripe) may process data outside the UK. These services use approved safeguards (such as Standard Contractual Clauses) to ensure your information remains protected.

10. Cookies & Website Analytics

My website may use cookies or third-party tools like Google Analytics to collect anonymous usage data. This helps me understand how visitors use the site, so I can improve it. You can disable cookies in your browser settings if you prefer.

11. Consent

By working with me and completing the intake form, you are giving your explicit consent for me to collect and process your personal data, including health and emergency contact information if you choose to provide it.

You can withdraw this consent at any time.

12. Updates to This Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated from time to time to reflect legal changes or how I work. The latest version will always be available on my website. I’ll let you know directly if any major changes affect you.

Thank you for trusting me with your information. Your privacy and safety are a top priority.

Need to Get in Touch?

📧 hannah@chooseyourway.co.uk
📞 07949 251741
🌐 www.chooseyourway.co.uk

Last updated: 5 August 2025.
Owner: Hannah Chatterley