Introduction:
At Supported Steps CIC, we are committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of our website visitors, clients, and individuals receiving our domiciliary care and mental health services. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard personal information in accordance with applicable privacy laws. By accessing our website or using our services, you consent to the practices described in this policy.
Information Collection:
We may collect personal information from individuals directly or from authorized third parties, such as healthcare professionals or family members. The types of personal information we collect may include but are not limited to:
- Names, addresses, and contact details.
- Date of birth and age.
- Medical history and health information.
- Emergency contact information.
- Insurance and payment details.
Use of Personal Information:
We use the personal information we collect for the following purposes:
- Providing domiciliary care and mental health services to our clients.
- Scheduling appointments and coordinating care plans.
- Communicating with clients, their families, and authorized representatives.
- Managing billing and processing payments.
- Ensuring the safety and well-being of our clients.
- Conducting internal research and improving our services.
- Complying with legal and regulatory requirements.
Information Sharing:
We may share personal information under the following circumstances:
- With healthcare professionals, caregivers, and other service providers involved in delivering our services.
- With insurance providers for processing claims and verifying coverage.
- With government agencies or authorities when required by law or as necessary for public health or safety.
- With third-party service providers who assist us in operating our website or conducting business operations (such as billing software, scheduling tools) – these providers are bound by confidentiality obligations.
- With the explicit consent of the individual or as otherwise permitted or required by law.
Data Security:
We implement reasonable and appropriate measures to protect personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. These measures include:
- Physical safeguards, such as secure premises and controlled access to confidential areas.
- Technological safeguards, such as encryption, firewalls, and secure server infrastructure.
- Administrative safeguards, such as employee training, confidentiality agreements, and access controls.
Retention and Storage:
We retain personal information for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy, or as required by law. We have procedures in place to ensure the secure deletion or anonymization of personal information when it is no longer needed.
Cookies and Tracking Technologies:
Our website may use cookies, web beacons, or other similar technologies to enhance user experience and gather information about how visitors use our site. These technologies may collect data such as IP addresses, browser types, and website activity. Users can manage their preferences for cookies and tracking technologies through their browser settings.
Third-Party Links:
Our website may contain links to third-party websites or services that are not under our control. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of those sites. We recommend reviewing the privacy policies of any third-party websites you visit.
Children’s Privacy:
We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under the age of 13 without parental consent. If you believe we may have inadvertently collected personal information from a child, please contact us immediately, and we will take appropriate steps to remove such information from our records.
Changes to the Privacy Policy:
We reserve the right to update or modify this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be effective upon posting the revised policy on our website. We encourage you to review this policy periodically to stay informed about how we collect, use, and protect your personal information.
Contact Information:
If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us using the following information:
Supported Steps CIC
Address: 171, Albert Rd, Farnworth, Bolton BL4 9HP
Phone: 01204 318001
Email: admin@supportedsteps.co.uk
By using our website or services, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Privacy Policy and consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your personal information as described herein. Note: This is a general privacy policy template. Please ensure that you consult with legal professionals to adapt it to your specific circumstances and comply with the applicable laws and regulations in your jurisdiction.