Privacy policy
Last updated: 5 September 2026
This policy explains how Church Directory UK (churchdirectory.co.uk) handles personal data. We process personal data in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.
What we collect
When you submit a church or use the contact form, we collect what you choose to give us: your name, email address, your message and any church details you provide. We use this information to handle your submission or enquiry. Church details supplied for a listing may be published. We do not sell personal data; our hosting, database and email providers process information to operate these features.
Lawful basis
We rely on legitimate interest to run the directory and respond to messages, and on consent where you choose to send us information. You may withdraw consent at any time by asking us to delete what you have sent.
Location searches
The “near me” feature asks your browser for your location, with your permission, and uses the coordinates for a single anonymous search. The coordinates are sent to our server and used to query the directory database. They are not stored in a visitor profile by the location-search feature. Hosting providers may process request logs.
Cookies and analytics
Google Analytics loads only if you select “Allow analytics”. It measures page visits and interactions using information such as browser and device details and analytics identifiers. Google processes this information as the analytics provider. Rejecting analytics does not prevent you using the directory. We save your choice in your browser’s local storage for six months. Use “Cookie settings” in the footer to change it; withdrawing permission stops further analytics loading and removes our Google Analytics cookies from this browser.
Advertising and external services
Advertising is disabled by default while the site is being reviewed. If Google advertising is enabled, Google and its partners may process device information, cookie identifiers and advertising choices. Advertising consent is handled separately from this site’s analytics choice. See how Google uses information from partner sites.
Church pages may embed OpenStreetMap maps and link to external church websites. Loading a map or following an external link sends a request to that provider, which receives connection information such as your IP address. Those providers have their own privacy policies. Website hosting and database services are provided through Vercel and Supabase; enquiries are also processed through our email service.
Public church data
Church listings are drawn from public sources, chiefly OpenStreetMap, together with churches’ own public websites and direct submissions. Listings describe organisations, not private individuals. If your church is listed and you would like it amended or removed, contact us and we will act promptly.
Retention and your rights
Contact messages and submissions are kept only as long as needed to deal with them. Under UK GDPR you have the right to access, correct or erase personal data we hold about you, to object to or restrict processing, and to data portability. To exercise any of these rights, use the contact form or email hello@churchdirectory.co.uk. If you are unhappy with how we handle your data, you may complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ico.org.uk).
Contact
For privacy questions, email hello@churchdirectory.co.uk.