Cookie Policy

1. Introduction

This Cookies Policy explains how You matter (“we”, “our”, “us”) uses cookies and similar technologies on our website: www.you-matter.org.uk.

This policy should be read together with our Privacy Policy, which explains how we process personal data and your rights.

We use cookies to operate our website, improve your experience, understand how visitors use our site, and support certain functionality. Where required by law, we will only set non-essential cookies after you have provided consent.

2. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit a website. They allow the site to recognise your browser and remember information such as preferences, login details, or how the site is used.

Cookies may be:

• First-party cookies – set directly by our website
  Third-party cookies – set by other organisations providing services on our site
  Session cookies – deleted when the browser is closed
  Persistent cookies – remain on your device for a defined period

3. Types of Cookies We Use

3.1 Essential Cookies

These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off. They enable core features such as:

• Secure access to forms
• Session management
• Basic site functionality

These cookies do not require user consent under PECR.

3.2 Performance Cookies (Analytics)

These cookies help us understand how visitors use our website, enabling improvements to content, navigation, and user experience. We typically use aggregated and anonymised analytics.

Examples include:

• Pages visited
• Time spent on site
• Browser type

These cookies are only set after you give consent, unless permitted otherwise under future DUAA regulations.

3.3 Functionality Cookies

These cookies support enhanced features, such as remembering your preferences (e.g., language or region).

These are optional and only set with your consent.

3.4 Targeting and Advertising Cookies

We may use these cookies to:

• Limit the number of times you see certain content
• Understand interests
• Provide more relevant site material

Any third-party advertising or tracking cookies will only be activated after consent.

4. Third-Party Cookies

We may use third-party services such as analytics tools, embedded videos, or content partners. These third parties may set their own cookies.

Examples of common providers include:

• Google Analytics
• YouTube (embedded media)
• Social media platforms (when using share or embed features)

We do not control third-party cookies. You should review their respective privacy or cookies policies for more information.

5. Our Third-Party Privacy Commitment

We review the privacy and security practices of the third-party providers we work with to ensure they align with our data protection standards. We do not knowingly use services that compromise user privacy.

6. Cookie Consent and Management

6.1 Consent Requirements

Under PECR, non-essential cookies (analytics, functionality, targeting) require active consent before they are set.

Our website uses a cookie banner that allows you to:

• Accept all cookies
• Reject non-essential cookies
• Manage cookie preferences individually

6.2 DUAA 2025 Considerations

The Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 introduces flexibility for certain low-risk analytics. Our cookie banner and practices will continue to be updated in line with DUAA and future ICO guidance.

6.3 Changing Your Preferences

You can change or withdraw your cookie preferences at any time via the cookie banner or your browser settings.

6.4 Blocking Cookies

If you choose to block cookies entirely, some website functionality may be limited or unavailable.

7. How to Control Cookies Through Your Browser

You can adjust cookie settings directly in your browser. Instructions are available through the help pages of:

• Chrome
• Firefox
• Safari
• Edge

If you use multiple devices, you must update settings on each one.

8. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Cookies Policy, please contact: [email protected]