Legal
Privacy policy.
What we collect, why, how long we keep it and how to ask us about it.
What we collect
When you use the form on this site we collect your name, phone number, email address and postcode, what you are asking about, the date you mention if any, and anything you write in the message box. The form also records the time it was sent and your IP address, used only to block automated submissions.
If you become a patient we keep a record: your medical history and medicines, what you came for, the points used and how you got on, and any letters to your GP. Health records are special category data and are held under the stricter rules that apply to them. The course page stores nothing: your choices are only in the web address.
Why we use it
- To book and remind you of appointments (the steps needed before and under a contract).
- To treat you safely, which includes keeping records (contract, and our professional and licensing obligations).
- To write to your GP with your agreement, or without it in an emergency where you cannot give it (vital interests).
How long we keep it
Enquiries that do not become appointments are deleted after six months. Patient records are kept for eight years after your last visit, or until a child patient is twenty-five, whichever is longer.
Who sees it
Ling and Rhys; your GP if you agree; the council environmental health officer on inspection, which does not normally involve patient records; and our accountant for invoice records. The form is delivered by email to us; we do not use third-party form services or marketing platforms. We do not sell or share your details for marketing.
Cookies
This site sets a single session cookie to limit repeat form submissions. It contains no personal data and expires when you close the browser. The embedded map is served by Google and may set cookies under Google's own policy.
Your rights
You can ask for a copy of what we hold, ask us to correct or delete it within the limits of what we are required to keep, or object to how we use it. Email hello@meridian-acupuncture.co.uk or write to the address above. You can also complain to the Information Commissioner's Office at ico.org.uk.