SMALL BUSINESS
Why Every UK Business Needs a Privacy Policy on Their Website
A privacy policy isn't just good practice — it's a legal requirement for UK websites under GDPR. Here's what you need and how to get it right.
Why Every UK Business Needs a Privacy Policy
The Legal Requirement
Under UK GDPR (the UK's post-Brexit version of the EU GDPR), any website that collects personal data must have a clear, accessible privacy policy. This includes:
- Contact forms
- Email newsletter signups
- Cookie tracking (including Google Analytics)
- E-commerce purchases
Failure to provide a privacy policy can result in fines from the ICO (Information Commissioner's Office).
What Your Privacy Policy Must Include
- Who you are — Your business name, address, and contact details
- What data you collect — Names, email addresses, IP addresses, etc.
- Why you collect it — The legal basis for processing (consent, legitimate interest, contract)
- How you use it — To respond to enquiries, send newsletters, process orders, etc.
- Who you share it with — Third-party processors (e.g., email platforms, payment providers)
- How long you keep it — Your data retention policy
- Users' rights — Right to access, correct, delete, and object
- Cookie policy — What cookies you use and why
Don't Forget the Cookie Banner
If you use any non-essential cookies (like Google Analytics), you must obtain explicit consent before setting them.
All OWD websites are built with GDPR compliance in mind, including privacy policies and cookie consent where required.
Contact us if you have concerns about your website's legal compliance.
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