Privacy policy

1. Who we are

Out in Kent is a local discovery platform for Kent. For the personal information described in this policy, Out in Kent is the data controller. You can contact us at support@outinkent.co.uk.

Before the public launch, this notice will be updated with the operator's full registered legal name and postal address.

2. Information we collect

When you browse

If you accept analytics, we collect an anonymous per-tab session identifier, pages viewed, searches, filters, device category, campaign or referring website, venue views, saves, direction clicks and booking-link clicks. Search text is shortened and email addresses and UK mobile numbers are redacted before it is stored. We do not store your precise location in analytics.

When you create an account

We collect your email address, display name, account type, authentication records and account security information. Passwords are handled by our authentication provider and are not visible to Out in Kent.

When you interact with listings

We collect saved venues, reviews and ratings. If you submit or claim a venue, we may also collect your name, work email, telephone number, evidence of authority, venue address, coordinates, opening hours, facilities, photographs, event details and offer information.

When you contact us

We collect the information in your message and the contact details needed to reply and resolve your request.

3. Why we use information and our lawful bases

• To provide accounts and requested services: necessary to perform our contract with you.
• To moderate listings, reviews, events and offers: our legitimate interests in operating a trustworthy local directory and preventing misuse.
• To secure the platform and investigate abuse: our legitimate interests and, where applicable, legal obligations.
• To provide AI recommendations: performing the search you request. Avoid including sensitive or personal information in a search.
• To measure and improve the service: your consent, where analytics storage or similar technology is used.
• To send optional marketing: your consent. You can unsubscribe at any time.

4. Who we share information with

We use carefully selected service providers to operate the platform, including Hostinger for web hosting, Supabase for database, authentication and file storage, OpenAI for AI search processing, and Google Maps Platform for address suggestions and directions. We may also share information with professional advisers, regulators or law enforcement where the law requires it, or as part of a business sale or reorganisation.

A venue's approved public profile can include business contact details, opening information, photographs, reviews, events and offers. Private owner contact details and claim evidence are restricted to authorised users and administrators.

Some providers may process information outside the UK. Before public launch, we will confirm each provider's processing location and the relevant UK transfer safeguard in our data processing records.

5. How long we keep information

We keep personal information only while it is needed for the purpose collected, to meet legal obligations, or to establish or defend legal claims. Account and business records are normally kept while the account or listing is active. Rejected or withdrawn submissions and support records are reviewed for deletion when they are no longer needed. Anonymous analytics is reviewed on a rolling basis. We will publish a final retention schedule before public launch.

6. Security

We use access controls, encrypted connections, restricted administrative access, row-level database policies, input and upload checks, security headers and monitoring. No online service can guarantee absolute security, so please use a unique password and tell us promptly if you suspect unauthorised use.

7. Cookies, local storage and analytics choices

Essential browser storage keeps sign-in sessions secure and remembers your privacy choice. Optional analytics uses a random identifier stored for the current browser tab. We do not run optional analytics until you choose to accept it.

8. Your data protection rights

Depending on the circumstances, you may have rights to be informed, access your information, correct it, erase it, restrict or object to processing, and receive portable data. You can withdraw consent at any time without affecting earlier lawful processing. Contact us to exercise a right. We may need to verify your identity before responding.

You can also complain to the Information Commissioner's Office. We would appreciate the opportunity to resolve your concern first.

9. Contact and changes

Email privacy questions or requests to support@outinkent.co.uk. We will update this page when our services, providers or legal duties change. Material changes will be highlighted on the platform.

You may also want to read our terms and conditions.