Privacy & Cookie Policy
Last updated: 25 September 2026
1. Introduction
St Maxentius Church (“we”, “our”, “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring your personal information is handled securely, respectfully, and in accordance with Christian values. This policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal data when you use our website or contact us regarding worship, events, pastoral support, or community activities.
We comply with:
- UK GDPR
- Data Protection Act 2018
- Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR)
- Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 (DUAA)
- Church of England data‑handling guidance
2. Personal Data We Collect
We may collect personal information when you:
- Contact us through the website
- Request pastoral support
- Enquire about baptisms, weddings, funerals
- Subscribe to newsletters
- Book onto events or groups
- Make a donation
- Volunteer or join a church rota
This may include:
- Name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Address
- Enquiry details
- Donation information (processed securely by third‑party providers)
Technical data collected automatically:
- IP address
- Browser type
- Pages visited
- Cookie data
We do not collect sensitive pastoral information through the website.
3. How We Use Your Information
We use personal data to:
- Respond to enquiries
- Provide pastoral support
- Manage church activities and events
- Maintain communication records
- Send newsletters (with consent)
- Process donations
- Improve our website
- Meet legal and safeguarding obligations
4. Legal Bases for Processing
We process personal data under:
- Consent
- Contract (e.g., weddings, baptisms)
- Legal obligation
- Legitimate interests
- Recognised legitimate interests (DUAA)
5. Cookies
We use necessary, functional, and analytics cookies to improve your experience.
6. Managing Cookies
You can manage cookies through your browser settings. Disabling cookies may affect functionality.
7. Data Sharing
We may share data with:
- Website hosting providers
- IT/security partners
- Church of England diocesan bodies
- Safeguarding authorities (where legally required)
- Donation processors
We do not sell personal data.
8. Data Security
We use secure servers, encrypted connections, restricted access, and regular reviews.
9. Data Retention
We retain personal data only as long as necessary for church administration, pastoral care, and legal requirements.
10. Your Rights
You may:
- Access
- Correct
- Delete
- Restrict
- Object
- Withdraw consent
- Request portability
11. Complaints
If unresolved, you may contact the ICO.
12. Contact Us
Email: [email protected] Address: St Maxentius Church, Bradshaw, Bolton Website: https://stmaxentiuschurch.co.uk/