Confidentiality
Wherever possible, I will talk to you first before sharing anything, explain why, and involve you in deciding what happens next. My aim is always to work with you, not to act behind your back.
I may also, from time to time, discuss my work in professional supervision. This is a normal and important part of working safely and ethically. In supervision, your identity is kept anonymous, and my supervisor is also bound by confidentiality.
Coaching is not an emergency or crisis service. If you ever feel unsafe or in crisis between sessions, please contact your GP, call 111, or in an emergency call 999. You can also contact the Samaritans free at any time on 116 123.
If you have any questions about confidentiality, please ask — I'm always happy to talk it through.
Everything you tell me during our sessions is treated as confidential. I won't share what we discuss with anyone else without your permission, and any notes or records I keep are stored securely and seen only by me.
There are, however, a few important situations where I may need to share information, even without your consent. These are limited and exist to keep you and others safe:
If I believe there is a serious and immediate risk to your life or safety, or to the life or safety of someone else.
If I become aware that a child or vulnerable adult may be at risk of harm, in line with my safeguarding responsibilities.
If I am required to share information by law, for example by a court order, or where disclosure is necessary to prevent or report a serious crime.