Privacy Statement
Hybrid Independent Living is committed to protecting your privacy, your personal information and your rights. This Privacy Statement explains what information we collect, why we collect it, how we use it and how we keep it safe. We follow all relevant UK data protection laws, including the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. By using our services, you agree to the practices described in this statement.
Who We Are
Hybrid Independent Living provides home support services designed to promote independence, comfort and wellbeing. For the purposes of data protection law, Hybrid Independent Living is the Data Controller, meaning we decide how your information is used and stored.
What Information We Collect
We only collect information that is necessary to provide safe, effective support.
Information you provide directly
- Name, address and contact details
- Emergency contact information
- Health or wellbeing information relevant to your support
- Details about your home environment
- Preferences, routines and support needs
- Notes from assessments, visits and reviews
- Payment information (not card details)
- Communication records (calls, messages, emails)
Information we may collect indirectly
- Information provided by family members or professionals (with your knowledge)
- Updates from safeguarding or health agencies if required for your safety
Why We Collect Your Information
- Provide safe, personalised support
- Maintain accurate records
- Communicate with you and your designated contacts
- Manage payments and administration
- Meet our legal, professional and safeguarding obligations
- Improve our services based on feedback
Our Legal Basis for Using Your Information
Under the UK GDPR, we rely on the following bases:
- Contract: To fulfil our agreement to provide services to you.
- Legal Obligation: To comply with the law (e.g., safeguarding or financial records).
- Vital Interests: To protect your life or safety in an emergency.
- Legitimate Interests: To manage our business and ensure safe service delivery.
- Consent: Where you have given clear permission for specific uses (e.g., marketing).
Sharing Your Information
We only share your information when it is necessary, safe and legal to do so. This may include sharing with:
- Emergency services or health professionals (in an emergency)
- Safeguarding authorities (if there is a safety risk)
- Authorised staff members within Hybrid Independent Living
- Third-party service providers (e.g., secure payment or email systems)
- Where otherwise required by law
We never sell your information.
How We Protect Your Information
Your information is stored securely using password-protected systems, encrypted digital storage, restricted access for authorised staff only and secure disposal of paper records. We regularly review our data handling practices to ensure ongoing safety.
How Long We Keep Your Information
- Client records: up to 7 years after your service ends
- Financial records: 6 years
- Safeguarding records: as required by statutory guidance
After this, information is securely deleted or destroyed.
Your Rights
You have the right to access your information, request corrections, request deletion (where appropriate), restrict or object to certain uses, withdraw consent and request a copy of your data. To exercise your rights, simply contact us.
Safeguarding
If we believe you or someone else is at risk of harm, we may need to share information with safeguarding authorities or emergency services. We will always share the minimum necessary information and act in your best interests.
If You Have Concerns
If you have questions about how your information is handled, please contact us directly. If you are not satisfied with our response, you can contact the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) for independent advice.