Ethics and safeguarding

Professional, ethical practice is at the heart of everything I do. I work in line with the BACP Ethical Framework and statutory safeguarding guidance to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all clients.

Ethical framework

I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and work in line with the BACP Ethical Framework.

The BACP Ethical Framework sets out the values, principles, and standards that guide professional practice in counselling and psychotherapy. It ensures that clients receive safe, effective, and ethical support.

Key principles include:

  • Respect for human rights and dignity - Treating all clients with respect and valuing their autonomy
  • Integrity - Practising honestly and maintaining professional standards
  • Commitment to enhancing wellbeing - Working in the best interests of clients
  • Safeguarding - Protecting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults
  • Accountability - Taking responsibility for professional practice and decisions

Confidentiality

Maintained in line with professional standards, with clear safeguarding limits

This means that what you or your child shares in counselling remains private. However, there are situations where confidentiality may need to be broken, including:

  • If there is a risk of serious harm to the client or someone else
  • If there is a safeguarding concern involving a child or vulnerable adult
  • If required by law (e.g., a court order or terrorism-related disclosure)
  • If there is a professional or ethical duty to share information

These limits are explained clearly at the start of counselling. Wherever possible, I will discuss any need to share information with the client first, unless doing so would put someone at risk.

Safeguarding

In line with statutory and professional guidance

Safeguarding means protecting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. If a young person shares something that suggests they or someone else is at risk of harm, I have a professional and legal duty to act.

This might involve:

  • Discussing concerns with parents or carers
  • Liaising with school safeguarding leads
  • Making a referral to children's social care or other safeguarding teams
  • Contacting emergency services if there is immediate risk

Safeguarding decisions are never taken lightly. They are made in the best interests of the young person and with sensitivity to their feelings and circumstances. Wherever possible, young people are involved in decisions about what happens next.

Data protection

GDPR-compliant handling of personal data

Personal information is stored securely and only used for the purposes of providing counselling. This includes:

  • Contact details (name, email, phone)
  • Session notes and records
  • Relevant background information shared during the work

Session notes are kept securely and confidentially. They are not shared with third parties unless there is a safeguarding concern or a legal requirement to do so. You have the right to request access to your data and to ask for it to be corrected or deleted, subject to legal and professional obligations.

Records are retained in line with BACP guidance (typically for a minimum period after the end of the work) and then securely destroyed.

DBS check and insurance

I hold a Clear Enhanced DBS check.

An Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is required for anyone working with children and young people. It ensures that the person does not have a criminal record that would make them unsuitable for working with vulnerable groups. This check is regularly updated in line with professional requirements.

I am Fully insured for professional practice, providing additional assurance that your child is in safe, professional hands.

Professional membership and supervision

I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Membership requires adherence to the BACP Ethical Framework and Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

I receive regular clinical supervision from an experienced supervisor. Supervision is a professional requirement for all counsellors and therapists. It provides a space to reflect on practice, discuss challenging cases (confidentially), and ensure that the work remains safe, ethical, and effective.

Supervision does not replace therapy, but it ensures that I am supported in my work and that clients receive the highest standard of care.

Complaints and concerns

If you have a concern or complaint about the counselling you or your child has received, please raise it with me directly in the first instance. I take all feedback seriously and will work to resolve concerns quickly and professionally.

If you are not satisfied with the response, you have the right to make a formal complaint to the BACP. Information about how to do this is available on the BACP website.

Questions about ethics or safeguarding?

If you have questions about how I work or the ethical framework I follow, please get in touch.

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