Transparency & trust.

The Support Space is operated by Sharlene Perris, a qualified counsellor with a master’s degree. I am committed to protecting your personal information and handling it with care, transparency and integrity.

What Information I Collect

• Name, email address and phone number
• GP details (where relevant)
• Emergency contact details
• Information shared in enquiry forms
• Session notes

How Information Is Collected

• Website contact forms
• Email correspondence
• Intake paperwork
• During counselling sessions

Lawful Basis for Processing

• Contract (to provide counselling services)
• Legitimate interest (professional record keeping)
• Legal obligation (where applicable)

How Your Information Is Stored

• Digital records are password-protected and encrypted.
• Paper notes are stored securely in locked storage.
• Only I have access to identifiable client information.

How Long Information Is Kept

Client records are retained for 7 years after the end of our work together (in line with professional guidance), after which they are securely destroyed.

Your Rights

I am registered with the ICO as required for holding client data. You have the right to:

• Request access to your data
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Request erasure (where legally appropriate)
• Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of counselling practice. Everything discussed in sessions remains confidential, and records are stored securely.

Limits of Confidentiality

Confidentiality may be broken if:

• There is risk of serious harm to yourself or others
• There are safeguarding concerns involving a child or vulnerable adult
• Disclosure is required by law (e.g., court order)

Where possible, I will always aim to discuss this with you first. I work within the ethical framework of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.

• Sessions require 48 hours’ notice to cancel or rearrange.
• Less than 48 hours’ notice: full session fee applies.
• Late arrival: session will still end at the scheduled time.
• Cancellations must be made via email or agreed contact method.

This policy allows me to manage my practice fairly and respectfully for all clients.

If you have concerns about any aspect of our work together, I encourage you to raise this with me directly so we can try to resolve it.

• Complaints should be made in writing via email.
• I will acknowledge your complaint within 5 working days.
• I aim to respond fully within 14 days.

If you feel your concern has not been resolved, you may contact the professional body I am registered with for further guidance.

This website may use cookies for:

• Essential website functionality
• Analytics (such as website traffic monitoring)
• Embedded content or booking systems

Cookies do not give me access to your computer or personal data beyond what you choose to share. You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings at any time.

• All content on this website is for informational purposes only.
• It does not constitute medical or psychological advice and does not replace individual therapy.
• Accessing this website does not create a therapeutic relationship.
• All written content remains the intellectual property of The Support Space and may not be reproduced without permission.
• While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, I cannot guarantee the completeness or ongoing accuracy of website content.

Your safety and wellbeing are always prioritised.

If I believe you or someone else is at serious risk of harm, I may need to contact relevant services such as:

• Your GP
• Emergency services
• Appropriate safeguarding authorities

Wherever possible, this will be discussed with you first. Safeguarding is not about control — it is about protection and responsibility.