Privacy Policy
Your privacy matters. This policy explains how GMK Counselling collects, uses and protects your personal information in accordance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.
Last updated: October 2026
Who we are
GMK Counselling is a private counselling practice operated by Gail Knowles, an integrative counsellor and BACP Registered Member (MBACP 169487).
Data controller: Gail Knowles, GMK Counselling, Widnes, Cheshire WA8 6QT.
Contact: [email protected] | 07525 120911
What personal data we collect
When you submit an enquiry via the contact form on this website, we collect your name, email address, and any information you choose to include in your message. Your phone number is optional.
We do not collect any special category data (such as health information) through this website. Any therapeutic information shared during counselling sessions is governed by a separate client agreement.
We do not use cookies for tracking or advertising purposes. This website does not use Google Analytics or any third-party tracking scripts.
How we use your data
We use the information you provide solely to respond to your enquiry and, if you proceed, to arrange counselling sessions.
We will never sell, share or pass your personal data to third parties for marketing purposes.
Our lawful basis for processing your enquiry data is legitimate interests (responding to a contact request you have initiated). Where we hold ongoing client records, the lawful basis is the performance of a contract.
How long we keep your data
Enquiry data from the contact form is retained only as long as necessary to respond to your enquiry, typically no longer than 12 months if no therapeutic relationship is established.
Client records are retained for a minimum of 7 years after the end of the therapeutic relationship, in line with BACP ethical guidelines and professional indemnity insurance requirements.
Your rights
Under UK GDPR you have the right to: access the personal data we hold about you; request correction of inaccurate data; request erasure of your data (where no legal obligation requires us to retain it); object to processing; and request restriction of processing.
To exercise any of these rights, please contact us at [email protected]. We will respond within one calendar month.
You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) at ico.org.uk or by calling 0303 123 1113.
Data security
We take appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your personal data against unauthorised access, loss or disclosure. Enquiry emails are transmitted securely and stored in a password-protected email account.
This website is served over HTTPS. We do not store contact form submissions in a database accessible to third parties.
Third-party links
This website contains links to external sites including BACP, Samaritans, Mind and NHS Every Mind Matters. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those websites and encourage you to read their own privacy policies.
Changes to this policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The date at the top of this page will reflect the most recent revision. Continued use of this website after any changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.