Privacy Policy

Please visit https://www.focusbirmingham.org.uk/privacy-policy to see our full Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy

Focus Birmingham is a registered charity (No. 1065745) that supports individuals with visual impairments and disabilities. We provide services such as Sight Loss Support through our Low Vision Centre, community engagement projects, a Complex Needs Day Service, and a Supported Living Scheme.

 

1. Data Protection Responsibilities

When we collect and process your personal data, we do so in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA) and the General Data Protection Regulation 2016 (GDPR)—together referred to as the “Data Protection Legislation.”

Focus Birmingham is regulated by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and acts as the data controller for the personal data you provide. We have appointed Kahina Clarke as our Data Protection Officer, responsible for ensuring compliance with data protection laws and managing requests related to your data rights.

This Privacy Policy explains what personal data we collect, why we collect it, and how we use and protect it. “Personal data” refers to any information that identifies or relates to you.

 

2. When and Why We Collect Your Personal Data

We may collect your personal data in the following situations:

2.1 When you use our services or enter into a contract with us

We may collect:

  • Your name, email address, postal address, phone number, date of birth, next of kin details, and any documented opinions relating to the service we provide.
  • Special category data such as health or medical records, care plans, and information about your religious beliefs, ethnic origin, or race.

2.2 When you provide goods or services to us

We may collect:

  • Your name, contact details, and any relevant information needed to process the service.
  • Financial information, such as bank account details, to facilitate payments.

 

2.3 When you apply for a job or volunteer with us

We may collect:

  • Your personal and contact details, educational and employment history, qualifications, right to work in the UK, and information about any disabilities or criminal record.
  • References and background information from third parties, such as recruitment agencies or former employers.
  • Special category data (e.g., age, ethnicity, gender) for equal opportunities monitoring.

Applicant Tracking System (ATS):
We may use an Applicant Tracking System to manage applications efficiently. The ATS helps us securely store your data and may automate aspects of the recruitment process. Any automated decision-making will be reviewed by a human and explained to you where required by law.

HR System Storage:

If your application is successful, your personal data will be securely stored and managed within our HR system as part of your employment or volunteering record. This system ensures safe handling of your data throughout your time with Focus Birmingham and for the duration of our data retention period.

 

2.4 When you engage with us as a supporter or contact us via our website

We may collect:

  • Your name, email, phone number, and address/location.
  • Information collected via our website, including cookies (see our Cookies Statement).
  • Information shared when registering for events, fundraising, requesting marketing materials, or submitting an enquiry.

Our website provider may also access limited user data for analysis and service improvement. This data is not transferred outside the EEA and is stored securely for up to 7 years.

By using our website, you agree to the practices described in this Privacy Policy and our Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree, please do not submit your personal data to us online.

 

3. Why We Process Your Data

We use your personal data to:

  • Deliver the services you request or contract with us to provide.
  • Receive goods or services from you.
  • Assess your application for employment or volunteering and, if successful, enter into a contract with you.
  • Make reasonable adjustments if you have a disability, and collect health data when necessary to assess job suitability or support.
  • Comply with equal opportunities requirements through monitoring data.
  • Communicate with you and respond to your queries.
  • Develop and improve our services through anonymised or consented feedback.
  • Send newsletters or marketing material (with your consent).
  • Inform you about services that may interest you (with consent).
  • Monitor and improve website usage and service delivery.

 

4. Legal Bases for Processing Your Data

We process your data under the following legal bases:

  1. Your consent (e.g., receiving marketing communications).
  2. A contract with you (e.g., providing or receiving services).
  3. Our legitimate interests (e.g., fulfilling our charitable aims, fundraising, recruitment).
  4. Legal obligations (e.g., employment law, health and safety).

If we provide you with health or social care services, we process special category data on the basis that it is necessary for those services. Some services are commissioned by the NHS or local authorities, and we may process data on their behalf.

If you are a tenant at Millward Place, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) may access your data for regulatory purposes.

 

5. Withdrawing Consent

Where processing is based on your consent, you can withdraw it at any time by contacting: