Cookie Policy
Last updated: October 14, 2025
1. About This Cookie Policy
This Cookie Policy explains how The Royal Care Ltd (“Royal Care”, “we”, “us”, “our”) uses cookies and similar technologies on this website. It should be read together with our Privacy Policy. Where cookies collect personal data, we use (or will use) them in accordance with UK GDPR and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR).
2. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device when a website is loaded in a browser. They are widely used to make websites work, improve efficiency, and provide reporting information. Cookies set by us are called “first‑party” cookies. Cookies set by third parties (e.g., analytics providers) are “third‑party” cookies.
Related technologies we may employ include local storage, session storage, and pixel tags.
3. Categories of Cookies We May Use
| Category | Purpose | Example Data Collected | Consent Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strictly Necessary | Enable core functionality (security, network management, accessibility preferences). | Session identifiers, security tokens. | No (cannot be disabled) |
| Functional / Preference | Remember user selections (e.g., cookie consent choices, form state). | Consent status, UI preferences. | Yes (implied if you choose a feature) |
| Performance / Analytics | Collect aggregated usage data to improve content and usability. Configured to minimise privacy impact. | Page views, anonymised or truncated IP, device type. | Yes (opt‑in) |
| Marketing / Social (future) | Enable social sharing embeds or marketing performance measurement. Not presently active at launch. | Social interaction counts, referral identifiers. | Yes (opt‑in) |
4. Specific Cookies (Illustrative)
As we finalise the site, a detailed register will be maintained here. Cookies currently anticipated:
| Name | Provider | Purpose | Lifespan | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| rc_consent | Royal Care | Stores your cookie consent preferences. | 6 months | First‑party |
| _pk_id.* / _pk_ses.* (if Matomo used) | Analytics | Distinguish visits / sessions (configured with IP anonymisation). | 13 months / 30 mins | First‑party |
| sb_* (if Splitbee enabled) | Analytics | Aggregate usage metrics, events (no personally identifiable profile). | Up to 1 year | Third‑party |
(Where tools are not yet deployed, entries will be updated or removed.)
5. Legal Basis
For non‑essential cookies we rely on your consent. Essential cookies are processed under legitimate interests (ensuring security, load balancing, and functionality) or contractual necessity where required to deliver requested content.
6. Managing Your Consent
- On first visit, a banner (or modal) will request your preferences.
- You can accept all, reject non‑essential, or customise choices (once the consent tool is active).
- You may withdraw or modify consent at any time by clearing cookies in your browser and revisiting the banner (or via a forthcoming “Cookie Settings” link in the footer).
Browser Controls
Most browsers allow you to block or delete cookies. Disabling all cookies (including essential) may affect site functionality. Guidance:
- Chrome: Settings > Privacy and security > Cookies and other site data
- Safari: Settings/Preferences > Privacy
- Firefox: Settings > Privacy & Security
- Edge: Settings > Cookies and site permissions
7. Third‑Party Services
Embedded or linked third‑party services (e.g., maps, social media links) may set their own cookies. We do not control these technologies and recommend reviewing those providers’ policies.
8. Data Retention
Cookie data is retained for the durations indicated above. Aggregated analytics reports may be stored longer in anonymised form.
9. Changes to This Cookie Policy
We may update this page to reflect changes in technology, law, or service configuration. The “Last updated” date will change accordingly. Material changes may be highlighted on the site.
10. Contact
Questions about this Cookie Policy or cookie usage:
- Email: admin@theroyalcare.co.uk
We value privacy‑aware analytics and a minimal tracking approach. Your preferences help us maintain a responsible data footprint.