1. Purpose
This policy sets out Prior Mindset’s position on the recording of online sessions and the taking of images (screenshots, screen recordings, or photographs). It ensures the protection of client confidentiality, professional boundaries, and legal compliance.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
All clients, families, and third parties present during online sessions.
All Prior Mindset practitioners, staff, and contractors.
All online platforms are used by Prior Mindset for service delivery.
3. Policy Statement
Recording of sessions, in any form, is not permitted.
Taking images (screenshots or photographs) of sessions is strictly prohibited.
This applies to both clients and staff, unless there is a specific lawful requirement and written authorisation from Prior Mindset management.
4. Reasons for Prohibition
Confidentiality and Privacy
Online sessions may involve the sharing of sensitive personal or medical information. Recording or capturing images could compromise client confidentiality and breach UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.
Data Security
Recordings or images stored on personal devices are outside of Prior Mindset’s secure systems and cannot be controlled or protected, creating a risk of data leakage or unauthorised sharing.
Professional Boundaries
Recordings or images may distort, misrepresent, or be misused outside the therapeutic or professional context, potentially damaging trust and professional integrity.
Legal and Ethical Compliance
Without explicit lawful basis, recording is a breach of UK data protection law and professional ethical standards (e.g. BACP, HCPC, NMC codes).
5. Exceptions
Recording is only permitted where there is a clear legal requirement (e.g. court order) or where Prior Mindset management provides written authorisation.
Any approved recording will:
Be carried out only with informed written consent of all parties.
Be securely stored within Prior Mindset’s controlled systems.
Be destroyed in line with retention schedules once no longer required.
6. Enforcement
Clients will be informed of this policy before starting services.
Any breach of this policy by clients may result in termination of services.
Any breach by staff will be treated as a disciplinary matter.
7. Training and Awareness
All staff will be briefed on this policy at induction and during safeguarding/data protection training.
Clients will be reminded at the start of online sessions that recording and images are not permitted.
8. Policy Ownership
Owned by: Designated Safeguarding Lead / Data Protection Officer
Approved by: Senior Management Team