Terms and Conditions

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing SEND HUGS. These Terms and Conditions (“Agreement”) set forth the legally binding terms for your use of my services. Please read these terms carefully. By using or accessing my services, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.

2. Definitions

  • ‘I’ or ‘me’ refers to Liz McCarthy, trading as SEND HUGS.

  • ‘You’ or ‘the Client’ refers to the individual(s) using my services, including parents, guardians, or caregivers.

  • ‘Services’ means all consultations, workshops, advice, materials, and related offerings provided by me.

  • ‘SEND’ stands for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

  • ‘HUGS’ stands for Help, Understanding, Guidance and Support.

3. My Services

  • I provide advisory services, information, and guidance to parents and caregivers regarding SEND support in schools in England and general parenting strategies. Please note that the rules on SEND support in Scotland and Wales are not the same as the English rules, and I do not provide specific advice on SEND support in schools outside England.

  • My services may include individual consultations, group sessions, workshops, written materials, online content, and recommendations to consult other organisations or professionals.

  • I do not provide medical, psychological, or legal services and do not diagnose conditions; my role is supportive and advisory.

4. Client Responsibilities

  • You are responsible for providing accurate and complete information when accessing my services.

  • You agree to use my services for lawful and appropriate purposes only.

  • My advice and guidance are based on the information you provide; any omissions or inaccuracies may affect outcomes.

  • You acknowledge that implementation of advice is at your own discretion and responsibility.

5. Confidentiality and Data Protection

  • I am committed to maintaining the confidentiality of your personal information in accordance with applicable data protection laws.

  • Your details will only be shared with third parties with your explicit consent, except where required by law or safeguarding concerns.

  • I store your information securely and will only retain it for as long as necessary, or as required by law.

6. Safeguarding

  • I take safeguarding seriously. If I believe there is a risk of harm to a child or vulnerable person, I may be required to report this to the relevant authorities, even without your consent.

  • I am trained to follow current safeguarding procedures and protocols.

7. Payment and Fees

  • Details of my fees will be provided to you in advance of any chargeable service.

  • Payment terms (e.g., timing, method) will be agreed in writing prior to service commencement.

  • Missed appointments or cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice may incur a fee.

  • All fees are non-refundable unless otherwise stated in writing.

8. Limitations of Service and Disclaimer

  • Advice is based on my expertise, experience, and the information available or provided by you, but outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

  • My services are not a substitute for medical advice, psychological therapy, or legal counsel. You should seek appropriate professional advice where necessary.

  • I am not liable for any decisions you make or actions you take based on my advice.

  • I am not responsible for any failure of any third party to obey the law in respect of the matters discussed in my advice.

  • To the extent permitted by law, I disclaim all warranties, express or implied, and am not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from using my services.

9. Intellectual Property

  • All materials provided by me remain my intellectual property unless otherwise specified.

  • You may use materials for personal, non-commercial use only; you may not reproduce, distribute, or modify my content without written permission.

10. External Links and Third Parties

  • My services may include references or links to third-party resources. These are provided for your convenience but do not constitute endorsement.

  • I am not responsible for the content, accuracy, or practices of any third-party resources.

  • You access third-party resources at your own risk and subject to their own terms and conditions.

11. Amendments and Updates

  • I may update these Terms and Conditions from time to time. The latest version will be posted on my website or made available to you in writing.

  • Continued use of my services after changes indicates acceptance of the new terms.

12. Complaints and Feedback

  • If you are dissatisfied with any aspect of my service, please contact me in writing as soon as possible. I aim to address all complaints swiftly and fairly.

  • Your feedback is valuable and helps me improve my services.

13. Termination of Services

  • Either party may terminate the service agreement in writing at any time.

  • I reserve the right to refuse or discontinue services if I believe our relationship has broken down or if you fail to comply with these Terms and Conditions.

  • Termination does not affect any obligations acquired prior to termination, including payment for services provided.

14. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

  • This Agreement is governed by the laws of England and Wales.

  • Any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

15. Acceptance of Terms

  • By using my services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions.

  • If you have any questions, please contact me before using my services.

If you require this document in a different format or wish to clarify any aspect of these Terms and Conditions, please contact my office. Your trust, privacy, and satisfaction are important to me as I support you on your journey with SEND and parenting.