Policy

Privacy Policy

Last updated: 11 October 2025

We are committed to safeguarding the personal data shared with the ARC-HIVE register. This policy explains what information we collect, how it is used, and the rights you have over it.

1. Introduction

ARC-HIVE (Anticholinergic Reduction Case-studies: A Health Improvement Via Evidence register) is operated by the University of Aberdeen. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard personal data in line with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

2. Data we collect

We collect contact details and professional information that you provide via project submission forms, email correspondence, newsletter sign-ups, or participation in events. Limited analytics data (such as page views) may be collected using privacy-friendly tooling with IP anonymisation.

3. How we use your data

Personal data is processed to administer the ARC-HIVE register, verify and publish project materials, respond to enquiries, manage mailing lists, report on project impact to funders, and maintain platform security.

4. Legal basis

We rely on legitimate interests to maintain the ARC-HIVE register for research, healthcare improvement, and public interest purposes, on consent where you opt into communications, and on contractual or statutory obligations where applicable to research funding requirements.

Data is accessed by authorised University of Aberdeen staff and trusted project partners when necessary. We do not sell personal data. Limited data may be shared with service providers (e.g., secure hosting, email delivery) under appropriate contracts.

6. International transfers

Where data is transferred outside the UK, we ensure appropriate safeguards such as International Data Transfer Agreements or adequacy decisions are in place.

7. Data retention

We retain personal data only as long as necessary to deliver the ARC-HIVE register and meet legal or reporting obligations. Submission-related data is reviewed annually. Mailing list details are retained until you opt out.

8. Your rights

You have rights to access, rectify, erase, restrict, or object to processing, and to data portability where applicable. You may withdraw consent and lodge a complaint with the UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

9. Cookies and analytics

Essential cookies maintain session security for contributors. Optional analytics cookies are only used with consent and are configured to minimise data collection. Further detail is provided in our Cookie Notice (forthcoming).

10. Security

We implement technical and organisational measures including access controls, encryption, and secure development practices to protect personal data from unauthorised access, alteration, or loss.

11. Contact

For privacy enquiries or to exercise your rights, contact the ARC-HIVE project team at acer@abdn.ac.uk or write to University of Aberdeen, King's College, AB24 3FX, Aberdeen, Scotland/UK. You may also contact the University Data Protection Officer via dpa@abdn.ac.uk.

12. Updates

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Material changes will be highlighted on this page with a revised 'Last updated' date. We encourage you to review the Policy regularly.