1. Introduction

We take your privacy seriously. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal data when you visit our website or use our genealogy services.

2. What Personal Data We Collect

We may collect the following types of personal data:

• Your name and contact details (e.g. email address, postal address)
• Information you provide when submitting genealogy enquiries or using contact forms
• Payment information (if you purchase a service)
• Cookies and usage data (see Section 7)

In the context of genealogy research, you may also voluntarily provide names, dates of birth, and other information relating to yourself and family members.

3. How We Use Your Data

We use your data to:

• Respond to enquiries or provide genealogy research services
• Communicate with you about your project or order
• Manage our records and client accounts
• Improve the website and user experience
• Comply with legal obligations

We do not sell or share your personal data with third parties for marketing purposes.

4. Legal Basis for Processing

Under UK GDPR, we process your data based on the following legal grounds:

• Consent – when you voluntarily provide information
• Contract – to fulfil services you’ve requested
• Legal obligation – where required for record-keeping or compliance
• Legitimate interests – to operate and improve our business

5. Data Storage and Security

Your data is stored securely using password-protected systems and access is limited to authorised personnel only. We retain your data only for as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes for which it was collected, or as required by law.

6. Your Rights

Under data protection laws, you have the right to:

• Access the personal data we hold about you
• Request correction or deletion of your data
• Withdraw consent at any time
• Object to or restrict processing
• Lodge a complaint with the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office)

To exercise any of these rights, please contact us at catherine.harding@agentofancestry.co.uk.

7. Cookies

This website may use cookies to enhance your browsing experience and track usage data. You can disable cookies through your browser settings if you prefer not to share this information.

8. Third-Party Services

We may use third-party tools (e.g. payment processors or email platforms) which process data on our behalf. These providers are carefully selected and comply with relevant data protection laws.

9. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The most current version will always be posted on this page.