Privacy Policy
Last updated: January 2026
Kilfinan Community Forest Company (KCFC) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data. This policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information when you use our website or engage with us as a member, volunteer or supporter.
Who we are
Kilfinan Community Forest Company (KCFC) is a private limited by guarantee company that is regulated as a Scottish charity (SC041825) based in Tighnabruaich, Argyll. We manage Kilfinan Community Forest for the benefit of the local community. References to “we”, “us”, or “our” in this policy mean KCFC.
What information we collect
We may collect and process the following information:
- Personal details – such as your name, email address, postal address, when you contact us or apply for membership.
- Membership information – including category of membership and voting eligibility.
- Volunteer information – if you take part in forest activities or events.
- Website usage data – such as your IP address, browser type and pages visited (via cookies or analytics tools).
- Communications – any messages, forms or feedback submitted through our website.
How we use your information
We use your data to:
- Manage membership and communicate with members about KCFC activities.
- Send updates, newsletters, or event information (only if you’ve opted in).
- Respond to enquiries or requests made through our website.
- Meet legal or regulatory obligations as a charity and limited company.
- Monitor and improve our website and communications.
Lawful basis for processing
Under UK GDPR, we process your personal data on one or more of the following bases:
- With your consent (for example, when you sign up for updates).
- To fulfil a contract (such as managing your membership).
- To comply with a legal obligation (such as charity reporting).
- For our legitimate interests (such as running community events or improving services) — provided these interests are not overridden by your rights.
Cookies and website analytics
Our website may use cookies to improve your experience and to collect anonymous analytics data. Cookies are small files stored on your device. You can disable cookies in your browser settings but some parts of the site may not function correctly without them.
Sharing your information
We never sell or rent your personal information. We may share it only when necessary with:
- Service providers or partners who help us operate the website or manage communications (under strict data protection agreements).
- Regulatory bodies such as the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) where legally required.
Data storage and security
We store your data securely using password-protected systems and take all reasonable measures to protect it from loss, misuse, or unauthorised access. Any data held electronically is stored in the UK or EU in line with GDPR standards.
How long we keep your data
We only keep personal data for as long as necessary for the purpose it was collected. Membership and volunteer information is reviewed annually and you can ask us to delete your data at any time unless we are legally required to retain it.
Your rights
Under UK data protection law, you have the right to:
- Access the personal data we hold about you.
- Request correction of inaccurate information.
- Request deletion of your data (“the right to be forgotten”).
- Withdraw consent for communications at any time.
- Complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) if you believe your rights have been breached.
For more information about your rights, visit the Information Commissioner’s Office website.
Links to other websites
Our website may contain links to external sites operated by others (for example, local businesses). We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these sites.
Changes to this policy
We may update this policy occasionally to reflect changes in our practices or the law. Any updates will be posted on this page with a new “last updated” date.
Contact us
If you have any questions about this policy or how we handle your data, please contact us at:
Kilfinan Community Forest Company
Tighnabruaich, Argyll
Email: info@kilfinancommunityforest.org.uk