Effective date: 13|05|2025
Home Ed Circle (“we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting your privacy. This policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal information when you use our website [https://www.homeedcircle.co.uk].
1. Who We Are
Home Ed Circle is an online community platform supporting home-educating families in the UK through resources, directories, memberships, and a supportive members area.
2. What Data We Collect
We collect the following types of personal information:
- User Registration Data: Name, email address, password.
- Membership and Payment Data: Billing details for Circle+ members (processed securely via Stripe).
- Children’s Content (Optional): First names and submitted work (e.g. artwork, business listings) – with parental consent.
- Contact Data: Messages sent via contact forms or support requests.
- Analytics Data: IP address, browser type, device, and usage (via cookies and analytics tools).
- Marketing Preferences: Your opt-in choices for newsletters and updates.
3. How We Use Your Data
We use your personal data to:
- Provide membership access and features.
- Showcase children’s content (with parental permission).
- Process payments and manage subscriptions.
- Improve our website and services.
- Send you updates and newsletters (only if you opt in).
- Respond to your queries or requests.
4. Legal Bases for Processing
We process your data based on:
- Consent – for optional activities like newsletters and child showcases.
- Contract – to provide services you’ve signed up for (e.g. Circle+).
- Legal obligation – if required to keep records for tax or regulation.
- Legitimate interest – to improve and secure our services.
5. Sharing Your Data
We do not sell or rent your data. We may share limited data with trusted service providers (e.g. payment processors, email platforms) under strict confidentiality agreements. All third parties comply with data protection laws.
6. Children’s Data
Any information submitted about or by children (e.g. artwork or businesses) is only published with explicit parental consent. We never collect data from children directly.
7. Cookies
We use cookies for essential site functionality and analytics. You can manage cookie preferences via your browser settings or our cookie banner.
8. Data Storage and Security
Your data is stored securely on UK or EU-based servers. We use industry-standard encryption and access controls. We retain data only as long as necessary.
9. Your Rights
You have the right to:
- Access the personal data we hold about you.
- Correct inaccuracies.
- Request deletion of your data.
- Withdraw consent at any time.
- Object to certain types of processing.
To exercise any rights, email us at info@homeedcircle.co.uk
10. Contact Details
For questions or concerns, contact:
Home Ed Circle
Email: info@homeedcircle.co.uk
Website: [https://www.homeedcircle.co.uk]
You can also lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) at [https://ico.org.uk].