Website terms of use & privacy policy

Last updated: 20/02/2026

 

PART 1 – WEBSITE TERMS OF USE

 

1. About Us

Ryan Castle Foundation (“we”, “our”, “us”) is a UK unincorporated association providing free counselling support to individuals aged 18–40 diagnosed with a terminal illness and their families.

By using this website, you agree to these Terms of Use. If you do not agree, please do not use our website.

2. Use of This Website

You agree to use this website:

  • For lawful purposes only

  • In a way that does not infringe the rights of others

  • Without attempting to gain unauthorised access to our systems

You must not misuse this website by knowingly introducing viruses or malicious material.

3. Not Medical Advice

The information on this website is provided for general information only. It does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice.

Our services involve referral to independent counselling providers. The Foundation does not provide clinical treatment directly.

If you are in crisis or at immediate risk, please contact your GP, NHS 111, or emergency services (999).

4. Counselling Services Disclaimer

Ryan Castle Foundation facilitates access to counselling delivered by independent, qualified practitioners or partner organisations.

While we take reasonable steps to ensure providers are appropriately qualified and insured:

  • Counsellors operate as independent professionals.

  • Clinical responsibility rests with the counselling provider.

Any concerns about counselling practice may be addressed through our Complaints Policy.

 

5. Intellectual Property

All content on this website, including text, logos, and design, is the property of Ryan Castle Foundation unless otherwise stated.

You may not reproduce, copy or distribute content without written permission.

6. External Links

This website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the content, privacy practices, or accuracy of external sites.

7. Limitation of Liability

To the extent permitted by law, Ryan Castle Foundation shall not be liable for:

  • Any indirect or consequential loss

  • Loss arising from use of this website

  • Temporary unavailability of the website

Nothing in these Terms limits liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence.

8. Changes to These Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. Continued use of the website constitutes acceptance of any changes.

PART 2 – PRIVACY POLICY

 

1. Who We Are

Ryan Castle Foundation is the Data Controller for the purposes of UK data protection law.

We are registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

Contact: ryancastlefoundation@gmail.com

2. What Information We Collect

We may collect:

  • Name, email address, phone number

  • Address and date of birth

  • Emergency contact details

  • Information provided in referral forms

  • Health and diagnosis information (where relevant)

  • Website usage data (e.g., analytics)

We only collect information necessary to provide our services.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use personal data to:

  • Respond to enquiries

  • Assess and arrange counselling referrals

  • Communicate about services

  • Meet safeguarding responsibilities

  • Comply with legal obligations

  • Improve our website and services

We do not sell or trade personal data.

4. Lawful Basis for Processing

We process personal data under:

  • Consent

  • Legitimate interests (to operate our charity)

  • Legal obligations

For health and sensitive data:

  • Explicit consent

  • Provision of health/social care support

  • Safeguarding obligations

You may withdraw consent at any time.

5. Sharing Information

We may share relevant information with:

  • Outsourced counselling providers

  • Safeguarding authorities where required

  • Legal or regulatory bodies

We only share what is necessary and ensure appropriate safeguards are in place.

6. Data Security

We take appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect personal data, including:

  • Secure password-protected systems

  • Restricted access

  • Encrypted or secure cloud storage

  • Confidentiality agreements

If a serious data breach occurs, we will act in accordance with UK GDPR requirements.

7. Data Retention

We keep personal data only as long as necessary, including:

  • Referral records (typically up to 7 years)

  • Enquiries (up to 12 months)

  • Governance records (as legally required)

Data is securely deleted when no longer required.

8. Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Access your data

  • Correct inaccurate information

  • Request deletion (where applicable)

  • Restrict or object to processing

  • Withdraw consent

  • Lodge a complaint with the ICO

 

To exercise your rights, contact: ryancastlefoundation@gmail.com

You can also contact the ICO at: www.ico.org.uk

9. Cookies

Our website may use essential and basic analytics cookies to improve user experience.

You can control cookies through your browser settings.

10. Contact

If you have any questions about these Terms or our Privacy Policy, please contact:

ryancastlefoundation@gmail.com