Principles

The key principles informing this policy are those set out in the UKCP Code of Ethics.

These include, but are not limited to, a requirement:

• To act in the best interests of clients
• To maintain client confidentiality
• To act in a professional and honest way
• To consider issues of diversity and equality
• To maintain the reputation of the profession

Privacy

1. Au Milieu will ensure that all online records, including video material, and communications regarding clients are stored and transmitted in ways that protect the client’s privacy. 
2. Data protection includes a password protecting online databases and sensitive email attachments. Online diaries, appointment schedules, and arrangements for paying fees will also be password protected. This will be subject to Au Milieu’s Data Protection Policy.
3. Au Milieu will ensure that all therapists / trainees only use applications and services which maintain client confidentiality. Care should be taken to use appropriate privacy and security settings. Applications and services will be regularly reviewed to ensure that the most up-to-date versions are being used, given that updates often include security fixes. If a review shows that a more secure application or service has become available this will be adopted.
4. Au Milieu is committed to protecting the privacy of all therapists and trainees as far as this is possible given that many social media activities cannot be fully controlled or monitored.
5. All therapists and trainees within Au Milieu are obliged to ensure that no aspect of their personal information is shared with a client or other organisation. This includes being careful with their own use of social media and keeping in mind that their behaviour outside of their professional life may have an effect on the relationship with clients.

 

The use of Other Shared Platforms. This means nothing to me, someone else needs to think about this and put in the right wording for this section. i.e. How is this sort of data stored and accessed? By whom and when?

Depending upon the organisation, there may be several other shared platforms that these policies should consider. For example, these could include a training body’s moodle, online seminars and informal trainee online groups outside of the organisation’s direct control. The use of any of these platforms might include the posting of client material or activities that are unprofessional.

Organisational policies should include guidance on the use of these platforms.

This policy will be reviewed every two years or sooner, depending on relevant advances in social media and digital technology.

01/12/2024.