Consulting Agreement.
Agreement for the Provision of Consulting Services.
by Candice Quartermain (Consultant).
This agreement outlines the foundation of our work together. It exists to support clarity, mutual respect, and trust throughout our engagement. Please take a moment to read it through and if anything feels unclear, I welcome your questions.
Services Offered by the Consultant
I, Candice Quartermain, work with individuals and organisations as a Consultant. My approach is rooted in deep listening, somatic awareness, practical action, and integrity. I draw on a breadth of experience across leadership, systems design, coaching, mentoring and relational development. My commitment is to offer support that is respectful, honest, and tailored to your needs.
My Duty of Care and Code of Ethics
Confidentiality : I will treat all information shared in our sessions with care and confidentiality. I will not disclose anything discussed unless required by law or where there is an immediate risk of serious harm to you or others. In situations where I feel compelled to act (e.g. safeguarding), I will make every effort to speak with you first before taking any steps. I regularly work with trusted supervisors to ensure I am serving you ethically and effectively. Your identity and any identifying details are always protected in these conversations.
Integrity and Professional Practice : I commit to showing up fully, listening deeply, and offering honest, compassionate feedback. I engage in ongoing professional development and reflective practice to ensure I work to the highest standards. I will always inform you if I believe another form of support may better serve your needs.
Record Keeping : I keep minimal, confidential notes to support the work. These are stored securely and never shared without your permission. You have full access to any notes held about you, upon request. Records will be stored for up to seven years in line with professional guidance and securely destroyed thereafter. You will be offered the opportunity to receive session notes, which I am happy to provide. You are welcome to take notes during our sessions and to record upon request our sessions.
Professional Standards, Insurance & Duty of Care
I hold full Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance. I take my duty of care seriously and operate within a framework that centres around integrity, safety, and professional responsibility. If for any reason I believe our work is outside my scope or expertise, I will let you know and do my best to signpost you to another trusted professional or service.
Communication & Use of Technology
I may communicate with you between sessions via email or WhatsApp.
Please note:
WhatsApp is protected by end-to-end encryption and secured with two-step authentication on my device. I have this set up on my device.
I can upon request set up disappearing messages if requested.
I use Google Workspace for email and the secure storage of session notes. Google Workspace is GDPR-compliant and provides industry-standard protection; however, as with any third-party platform, there are inherent data security risks.
If you would prefer an alternative method of communication or storage, I’m happy to explore other options with you, otherwise I take it as agreement that this service works for you.
All personal and sensitive information is managed in line with UK GDPR and data protection legislation. Access to session notes is restricted and securely stored in a password-protected Google Drive folder with two-step authentication. No identifying information is stored in file names.
Wellbeing Between Sessions
My sessions can be powerful, and may sometimes bring up strong emotions or new insights.
I encourage you to:
Allow time for rest, integration, and nourishment after our sessions.
Keep track of your insights, challenges, and growth between sessions.
Let me know if anything arises that feels urgent or disruptive.
Commitment to the Process & Ongoing Contracting
We will regularly revisit and review our working agreement to ensure it continues to serve you. I welcome your feedback at any time, and aim to co-create a way of working that feels aligned, honest, and supportive.
Scope of Practice & Disclaimer
My services are not a substitute for clinical or medical treatment. I do not diagnose or treat mental health conditions. Where relevant, I will encourage you to seek support from a qualified healthcare provider. This relationship is a professional collaboration based on mutual respect and personal agency. You remain responsible for your decisions and actions throughout this process.
Technology Use Consent
By continuing to communicate via third-party platforms such as WhatsApp, the client accepts the associated risks of those platforms. While I take every care to maintain confidentiality, I cannot guarantee the security of information transmitted via third-party apps or devices.
Cancellation, Payment & Refunds
Late cancellations (under 48 hours) may be charged in full. If payment is not received, sessions will be paused until outstanding invoices are settled. I reserve the right to pause or terminate the agreement if boundaries are not respected or if fees remain unpaid beyond an agreed time period.
Referral-Based Practice
My practice is built through trusted word of mouth. If you feel someone in your network would benefit from this work, I warmly welcome introductions or referrals. I will always treat any enquiry with care, sensitivity, and full confidentiality.
Ending Our Work Together
Should you wish to conclude our work, I kindly ask for one month’s notice. This allows us to complete the current phase of work intentionally, and gives space for reflection and closure. If I need to end the work for any reason, I will also give you a minimum of one month’s notice wherever possible.
Emergency or Crisis Support
Please note that I am not a crisis service. If you are in immediate danger or distress, please contact emergency services or a relevant mental health support line. I can provide a list of recommended services if needed.