Cookie Policy – Welfare Academy

1. Purpose

This Cookie Policy explains how Welfare Academy uses cookies and similar technologies through its website, learning systems, and digital platforms. The policy aligns with UK GDPR, the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR), and ICO guidance.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all users accessing Welfare Academy websites, Learning Management Systems (LMS), online portals, applications, and associated digital services.

3. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on a user’s device when visiting a website. Cookies help websites function effectively, improve user experience, maintain security, and collect analytics information.

4. Types of Cookies Used

Welfare Academy may use:
• Essential cookies
• Functional cookies
• Analytics cookies
• Performance cookies
• Security cookies
• Session cookies
• Persistent cookies

5. Essential Cookies

Essential cookies are necessary for website operation, security, login authentication, navigation, and access to core institutional services. These cookies cannot usually be disabled.

6. Analytics and Performance Cookies

Analytics and performance cookies help Welfare Academy understand website usage, improve performance, monitor user interaction, and support service improvement.

7. Functional Cookies

Functional cookies may remember user preferences such as language settings, accessibility options, or login sessions to improve user experience.

8. Third-Party Cookies

Third-party systems may place cookies through institutional services, including:
• Learning platforms
• Video hosting services
• Analytics providers
• Payment systems
• Communication tools

Users should review third-party privacy and cookie policies where applicable.

9. Cookie Consent

Where legally required, users shall be provided with cookie notices, consent mechanisms, and preference options before non-essential cookies are activated.

10. Managing Cookies

Users may manage or disable cookies through browser settings. Disabling certain cookies may affect functionality, accessibility, or performance of institutional systems.

11. Data Protection and Privacy

Information collected through cookies shall be processed in accordance with UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, institutional privacy procedures, and safeguarding obligations where applicable.

12. Safeguarding and Security

Certain cookies may support safeguarding, fraud prevention, cybersecurity monitoring, login protection, and secure access management.

13. Accessibility and Inclusion

Welfare Academy aims to ensure that cookie notices and consent mechanisms are accessible, understandable, and inclusive for all users.

14. Changes to This Policy

Welfare Academy reserves the right to amend this Cookie Policy where necessary due to legislative updates, technical changes, or operational requirements.

15. Governance and Review

This Cookie Policy shall be reviewed annually and aligned with UK GDPR, PECR regulations, ICO guidance, and OfS expectations where applicable.

16. Contact Information

Welfare Academy

Email: support@welfarehs.co.uk
Telephone: 020 3983 0282

17. Policy Approval

This Cookie Policy is approved and maintained by Welfare Academy management and remains subject to periodic review and legislative updates.