child data protection policy
last review date: 16th march 2026
Effective Date: 2nd November 2023
Next Review Due: 16th march 2027
As an independent Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) in the UK, I offer online and facet-to-face services directly to children. Ensuring that I handle personal data in compliance with relevant data protection laws is paramount. This policy outlines how I manage consent and data protection, particularly focusing on children’s personal data.
1: Legal Basis for Processing Personal Data
In accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018, personal data is collected and processed under the lawful bases of contract and provision of health care in accordance with the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018. Consent is used where additional permission is required, such as sharing reports with third parties or providing online services directly to children.
2: Consent for Children Aged 13 and Over
- Self-Consent: Children aged 13 or over are considered capable of providing their own consent for online services.
- Children aged 13 and over may be able to provide consent for certain online services. However, where therapy services are provided, I will normally involve a parent or person with parental responsibility unless the young person is assessed as competent to make their own decisions.
- Verification: To verify the age of the child, I will:
- I take reasonable steps to confirm the identity of the person providing consent and their parental responsibility. This may include collecting parent or guardian contact details, obtaining signed consent forms, and confirming consent during the registration process.
- The date consent was obtained and what information was provided at the time.
4: Preventive and Counselling Services
- Exceptions: If the online services are provided for preventive or counselling purposes, different rules may apply.
- Preventive Services: These are services designed to prevent issues before they arise and may not always require parental consent. However, I will ensure that any service offered to a child under 13 will still follow best practices and consider the child’s welfare.
- Counselling Services: For counselling services, I will seek to obtain consent from the parent or guardian. In some circumstances, particularly where the service is confidential and in the child’s best interest, I may offer services without prior parental consent but will ensure that this is in compliance with relevant guidance and legal requirements.
5: Documentation and Record-Keeping
- Consent Records: I will maintain detailed records of all consents obtained, including.
- The method of consent (online form, signed document, etc.).
- Evidence of the person’s identity and their relationship to the child.
- Any communications related to consent.
- I use Write Upp to store all electronic information.
6: Review and Updates
- Policy Review: This policy will be reviewed annually or as needed to reflect changes in legislation or operational practices. Updates will be communicated to all relevant parties.
- If a safeguarding concern arises, information may be shared with appropriate safeguarding authorities in line with legal and professional responsibilities.
7: Contact
Please feel free to contact me at adhdslt@outlook.com if you have any questions about this policy.
Signed: Jamie Louise Hollis, ADHD SLT
Job Title: Speech and Language Therapist