Audio and Video Recordings of Psychological Therapy Sessions

Key Messages

1. This policy applies to all audio and video recordings of psychological therapy sessions where the patient can be identified, and applies to all types of media.
2. This policy is a local sub-policy to NHS in Scotland (NHSiS) (2010). Photography & video recordings of patients.
3. This policy applies to all staff employed by NHS Lothian, including agency and bank staff, all students, volunteers and agency and contractors working on behalf of NHS Lothian.
4. There must be a fully justifiable purpose for the audio or video recording of a patient to be carried out.
5. Permission must always be obtained from patients before audio or video recordings are made of a therapy session. The uses to which such recordings may be put must be fully specified.
6. Specific consent forms must be signed by each patient, including children where appropriate. It is not sufficient to record consent on audio- or videotape.
7. Members should clarify with patients how long recordings can be held. Recordings must be erased after the time agreed with patients, unless further consent is obtained.
8. Staff must also ensure that when complying with this policy that they do not obstruct or unnecessarily delay the provision of essential clinical care to patients.
9. NHS Scotland policy is that removable devices must be encrypted. Lothian Caldicott approval which details a risk assessment must be gained to for any other practice, on the standard proforma.
10. Audio and video recordings must be logged and stored safely and securely, in accordance with current legislation.
11. Loss of these recordings constitutes a breach of Information Governance and must be reported via a DATIX incident form.