rovide written information about the availability of counselling to any person who enters into, or is considering entering into, such an agreement with the agency. Where the agency is considering setting up an agreement for the sharing of protected information, it is essential that any person who is considering being party to the agreement fully understands it effect, the information that may be shared under the agreement and the implications of their decision. 12.4. There is no legal requirement for a person to accept counselling or to receive any other form of support and advice before the agency discloses information to them under sections 60-62 of the Act or provides an intermediary service. In respect of people adopted before 12 November 1975 they will have been required to receive counselling before being given information enabling them to obtain their birth certificate. However, experience has shown that counselling and support has real value in helping adopted persons, birth parents, birth relatives and others come to terms with the disclosure of sensitive information about themselves and their past, particularly where this has involved severe disruption or trauma. The agency should explain to both the applicant and the subject of the application the benefits of counselling, any fees that may apply and give assurance that the agency will secure counselling on request (see ISR 10.3 and AIR 17). A refusal by the applicant to receive initial counselling and support, particularly in complex cases, could be one of the factors that informs the exercise of the agency’s discretion as to whether or not to proceed with their application. 12.5. Where the applicant or the subject has complex support needs which an agency considers it cannot meet, they may be referred to the