Privacy Policy
Last Updated: January 2026
01Introduction
The Commandery of Ards ("we", "our", or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website or interact with our services.
02Information We Collect
We may collect information about you in a variety of ways:
- Personal DataName, email address, postal address, telephone number, and other contact details you voluntarily provide.
- Usage DataInformation about how you access and use our website, including your IP address, browser type, pages visited, and time spent on pages.
- CookiesSmall data files stored on your device that help us improve your experience and understand how our website is used.
03How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect for various purposes:
- To provide, maintain, and improve our services
- To respond to your enquiries and provide support
- To send you updates, newsletters, and other communications (with your consent)
- To process donations and membership applications
- To comply with legal obligations
04Sharing of Information
We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. We may share your information in the following circumstances:
- With service providers who assist us in operating our website and services
- With The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem for membership and award purposes
- When required by law or to protect our rights and safety
- With your consent or at your direction
05Data Security
We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your personal information against unauthorised access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. However, no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.
06Your Rights
Under applicable data protection laws, you have certain rights regarding your personal information:
- AccessYou have the right to request copies of your personal data.
- RectificationYou have the right to request correction of inaccurate information.
- ErasureYou have the right to request deletion of your personal data in certain circumstances.
- RestrictionYou have the right to request restriction of processing of your personal data.
- PortabilityYou have the right to request transfer of your data to another organisation.
- ObjectionYou have the right to object to processing of your personal data.
07Cookies Policy
Our website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience. You can choose to accept or decline cookies through your browser settings.
- Essential CookiesRequired for the website to function properly.
- Analytics CookiesHelp us understand how visitors interact with our website.
- Preference CookiesRemember your settings and preferences.
08Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by posting the new Privacy Policy on this page and updating the 'Last Updated' date.
09Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your rights, please contact us: