Privacy & GDPR Policy
The Retirement
1. Who We Are
The Retirement is a UK-based information and wellbeing website. We are committed to protecting your personal data and complying with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.
2. What Data We Collect
We only collect data that is necessary. This may include:
Name and contact details (e.g. email address)
Information you submit via contact or enquiry forms
Basic website usage data (cookies, page visits)
If you contact us about counselling or wellbeing matters, you may choose to share additional personal information. This is entirely voluntary.
3. Special Category Data (Counselling Enquiries)
Any information relating to mental health or personal wellbeing is treated as special category data and:
Is only processed with your explicit consent
Is used solely to respond to your enquiry
Is kept confidential and secure
Is never shared unless legally required (e.g. safeguarding)
This website does not provide emergency or crisis counselling services.
4. How We Use Your Data
Your data is used only to:
Respond to enquiries
Provide requested information or signposting
Improve website performance and content
Meet legal or safeguarding obligations
We do not sell or misuse your data.
5. Lawful Basis for Processing
We process personal data under:
Consent
Legitimate interest (responding to enquiries)
Legal obligation
You may withdraw consent at any time.
6. Data Storage & Security
Data is stored securely using appropriate safeguards. We retain data only for as long as necessary and take reasonable steps to prevent unauthorised access or loss.
7. Third Parties
We do not share personal data with third parties except:
Where required by law
Where necessary for safeguarding
Where you have explicitly agreed
Our website hosting and basic analytics may be provided by GoDaddy or similar service providers.
8. Cookies
This website uses essential and basic analytics cookies to function properly and understand site usage. You can control cookies via your browser settings.
9. Your Rights
You have the right to:
Access your personal data
Request correction or deletion
Withdraw consent
Object to processing
Complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)
10. Contact
For privacy or data-related enquiries, please contact us via the website.
Disclaimer
The information and services provided by The Retirement are for emotional and psychological support purposes only.
They do not constitute financial advice, pension advice, legal advice, or any other form of regulated advice.
If you require financial, legal, or medical advice, please consult a suitably qualified professional.
SAFEGUARDING & EMERGENCY SUPPORT INFORMATION
Safeguarding and Support
Counselling is not a crisis service.
If you are experiencing severe distress or feel at risk of harming yourself or others, please seek immediate help.
Contact your GP
Call NHS 111
In an emergency, call 999
Samaritans (UK): 116 123
The Retirement