Last updated: [Insert Date]

1. Introduction

The Guild of Traditional Upholsterers (“the Guild”, “we”, “us”) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data.

This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and store your information when you register for an account or otherwise interact with our website.

The Guild acts as the Data Controller for the personal data you provide to us.

2. Data We Collect

When you sign up or use our services, we may collect:

• Your name

• Your email address

• Account details (e.g. login credentials)

• General information about your background or training history

• Any other information you voluntarily provide

3. How We Use Your Data

We use your data to:

• Create and manage your Guild membership account

• Provide access to member-only materials and resources

• Communicate with you about Guild updates, events, and relevant news

• Understand our membership and improve our services

• Maintain the security and performance of our website

Our lawful bases for processing under the UK/EU GDPR are:

• Contract: to provide you with Guild membership benefits and services

• Legitimate interests: to maintain and improve our operations and member services

• Consent: for optional communications or where otherwise required

4. Data Sharing

The Guild of Traditional Upholsterers does not share, sell, or transfer your personal data to third parties for marketing or external processing.

All information you provide is used solely by the Guild for the purposes described in this policy.

5. Data Storage and Security

Your data is securely stored in our database and accessed only by authorized Guild personnel.

We use appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal data against unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or loss.

6. Data Retention

We retain your data only for as long as necessary to:

• Provide your membership and related services

• Comply with legal, accounting, or reporting obligations

• Enforce our agreements

When data is no longer needed, it is securely deleted.

7. Your Rights

Under the GDPR, you have the right to:

• Access your personal data

• Request correction of inaccurate information

• Request deletion of your data (“right to be forgotten”)

• Withdraw consent at any time (where applicable)

• Object to processing or request restriction of processing

• Request data portability

To exercise these rights, contact us at:

Email: [Your Contact Email]

8. International Data Transfers

The Guild stores and processes data within the UK/EU wherever possible.

If any international transfer becomes necessary, we ensure appropriate safeguards (such as Standard Contractual Clauses) are in place.

9. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or how the Guild handles your data, please contact us at:

Email: [Your Contact Email]

You also have the right to lodge a complaint with your local data protection authority, such as the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) in the UK.