Data Protection Policy

1. Purpose of the Policy

The Healing Hubs Charity is committed to ensuring the protection of personal data and compliance with relevant data protection legislation. This policy outlines our approach to collecting, using, storing, and protecting personal information, particularly concerning our services, including telephone befriending calls, community meeting places, warm hubs, laughter clubs, and laughter training courses.

2. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, and affiliates of The Healing Hubs Charity who handle personal data in any form. It encompasses all personal information collected and processed through our operations.

3. Data Collection

The Healing Hubs Charity will collect personal data that is necessary for providing our services. This may include:

- Names

- Contact information (telephone numbers, email addresses)

- Demographic information (age, gender)

- Health-related information (as necessary for service provision)

- Feedback and testimonials

We will collect personal data through forms, telephone calls, surveys, and direct communications from individuals who engage with our services.

4. Data Usage

The personal data collected will be used for the following purposes:

- Facilitating and managing telephone befriending services

- Organising and promoting community meeting places and activities

- Running warm hubs and providing relevant support

- Enhancing the laughter clubs and training courses

- Improving our services based on feedback received

5. Consent

Where appropriate, The Healing Hubs Charity will seek explicit consent from individuals before collecting and processing their personal data. Consent will be obtained in a clear and accessible manner, giving individuals an option to withdraw their consent at any time.

6. Data Storage and Security

We will store personal data securely, using electronic and physical safeguards to protect against unauthorised access, loss, or destruction. Access to personal data will be restricted to authorised personnel only.

Some of the security measures include:

- Password protection for electronic files and systems

- Regular software updates and security audits

- Secure disposal methods for sensitive information

7. Data Sharing

The Healing Hubs Charity will not share personal data with any third parties unless necessary for service provision or required by law. We will ensure that any third parties we share data with uphold data protection standards.

8. Data Retention

Personal data will be retained only for as long as necessary to fulfil its purpose and comply with legal obligations. Upon expiration of the retention period, personal data will be securely erased or anonymised.

9. Individual Rights

Individuals have the right to:

- Access their personal data held by The Healing Hubs Charity

- Request rectification of inaccurate data

- Request the deletion of their personal data under specific circumstances

- Withdraw consent at any time, where applicable

- Complain to the supervisory authority if they believe their rights have been violated

10. Training and Awareness

All staff and volunteers will receive training on data protection and this policy to ensure compliance and foster a culture of data privacy.

11. Review of Policy

This Data Protection Policy will be reviewed annually or as necessary in response to changes in legislation or operational practices.

12. Implementation

This policy is effective immediately and will be implemented in all aspects of operations within The Healing Hubs Charity.

Contact Information

For any questions or concerns regarding this policy or data protection at The Healing Hubs Charity, please contact:

Sarah Greenway

sarah@thehealinghubs.org.uk

By following this policy, The Healing Hubs Charity seeks to protect the privacy and trust of those we serve while delivering our vital services.