PRIVACY & COOKIES POLICY

Last Updated: 26/11/25

1. Introduction

Authentic (“we”, “us”, “our”) is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information responsibly. This combined Privacy & Cookies Policy explains:

  • What data we collect

  • How we use it

  • Your rights under UK GDPR

  • How cookies and similar technologies operate on our website

By using our website, you agree to the practices described in this policy.

If you do not agree, please discontinue use of the site.

2. Who We Are

Authentic is a UK-based consultancy helping businesses grow through authentic communication, the VIBES Journey methodology and supporting services such as growth strategy, influence training, and content/social consultancy.

Email: hello@theauthentic.uk
Address: Glen Road, Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY8 2BB
Company Number: 16833527
Data Controller: Authentic Ventures Ltd

3. What Personal Data We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

A. Information You Provide Directly

  • Name

  • Email address

  • Phone number

  • Company name

  • Job title

  • Project details or enquiry information

  • Content from forms, downloads, or sign-ups

  • Responses to surveys or feedback requests

B. Information Collected Automatically

When you use the site, we may automatically collect:

  • IP address

  • Browser type and version

  • Device type

  • Time zone

  • Pages visited, time on page

  • Click behaviour

  • Referral source

This is collected via cookies, analytics tools, and server logs.

C. Marketing & Communication Preferences

If you subscribe, enquire, or opt-in, we may collect:

  • Your marketing preferences

  • Email engagement (opens, clicks)

  • Download history (guides, offers, VIBES-related content, etc.)

D. Social Media & Third-Party Interactions

If you connect with Authentic through platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, X, or Instagram, those platforms may share limited data in line with their privacy settings.

4. How We Use Your Personal Data

We use your data for the following purposes:

A. To Provide Services & Respond to Enquiries

  • Responding to messages or contact form enquiries

  • Providing consultancy details or proposals

  • Delivering booked sessions, calls, or workshops

B. To Improve the Website

  • Understanding traffic patterns

  • Enhancing content relevance

  • Diagnosing technical issues

C. To Send Marketing Communications

Only where lawful and opt-in compliant:

  • Authentic insights, news, and updates

  • Guides, resources, workshops, or event invitations

  • Information related to the VIBES Journey and growth strategy

  • Promotions or offers

You can opt out anytime using the unsubscribe link.

D. To Maintain Business Records

  • Accounting and invoicing

  • Legal and regulatory compliance

E. To Personalise Content

  • Tailored recommendations

  • Customised content based on browsing behaviour

5. Legal Bases for Processing (UK GDPR)

We rely on one or more of the following:

  • Consent — for marketing emails and non-essential cookies

  • Contract — when providing consultancy, proposals, or pre-contractual discussions

  • Legitimate Interests — improving the website, understanding user behaviour, securing the site

  • Legal Obligations — record retention, accounting, regulatory compliance

6. How We Share Your Data

We do not sell your personal data.

We may share information with:

  • Service providers (e.g., CRM systems, email platforms, analytics tools)

  • Trusted freelance partners who support projects (copywriters, designers, videographers, etc.)

  • Legal or regulatory authorities if required by law

  • Website hosting and IT security providers

All partners who process data on our behalf must comply with UK GDPR.

7. International Transfers

Some service providers may operate outside the UK.
Where data is transferred internationally, we ensure:

  • Adequate safeguards (such as Standard Contractual Clauses)

  • Compliance with UK data protection standards

8. Data Retention

We keep personal data only as long as necessary for:

  • The purpose it was collected

  • Legal, accounting, or reporting requirements

Examples:

  • Enquiries: typically up to 24 months

  • Marketing consent: until you unsubscribe

  • Client project files: up to 7 years

9. Your Rights Under UK GDPR

You have the right to:

  1. Access your personal data

  2. Rectify inaccurate or incomplete data

  3. Erase your data (“right to be forgotten”)

  4. Restrict processing

  5. Object to processing

  6. Data portability

  7. Withdraw consent at any time

  8. Lodge a complaint with the ICO (www.ico.org.uk)

To exercise any rights, contact:
[Insert email]

10. Security

We use appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your data.
However, no online transmission is 100% secure, so absolute security cannot be guaranteed.

11. Cookies & Similar Technologies

This section explains how cookies operate on our website.

A. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device that help websites function, improve user experience, and provide analytics.

B. Types of Cookies We Use

  1. Strictly Necessary Cookies
    Essential for website functionality. Cannot be disabled.

  2. Performance & Analytics Cookies
    Help us analyse website usage (e.g., Google Analytics).
    Used to improve content relevance and website performance.

  3. Functionality Cookies
    Remember choices and preferences.

  4. Marketing & Advertising Cookies
    Track browsing behaviour across sites to deliver more relevant marketing.
    Only used with consent.

C. Third-Party Cookies

These may include:

  • Google Analytics / GA4

  • LinkedIn Insight Tag

  • Meta Pixel

  • YouTube embedded video cookies

  • CRM or form tracking tools (e.g., HubSpot)

D. Managing Cookies

When you first visit the site, you will see a cookie consent banner allowing you to:

  • Accept all cookies

  • Reject non-essential cookies

  • Manage settings

You can also control cookies via your browser:

  • Chrome → Settings → Privacy & Security → Cookies

  • Safari → Preferences → Privacy

  • Firefox → Options → Privacy

Note: disabling cookies may affect site functionality.

12. External Links

Our website may contain links to third-party sites.
We are not responsible for their privacy practices or content.
We recommend reviewing their policies before providing personal information.

13. Children’s Data

Our website and services are not intended for children under 16.
We do not knowingly collect data relating to minors.

14. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy & Cookies Policy occasionally.
Any updates will be posted on this page with an updated “Last Updated” date.

15. Contact Us

If you have questions about this policy or how we handle personal data:

Email: hello@theauthentic.uk