1. Who we are

This project is led by Cambridge City Council, working in partnership with local voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations.

Cambridge City Council is the data controller, which means it decides why and how personal data is used. The VCSE organisations supporting this project act as data processors, following the council’s instructions.

2. What this project is about

We are working together to design and deliver engagement activities with local communities.

The aim is to help the council develop its Equity Strategy in order for it to meet the requirements of the Public Sector Equality Duty under the Equality Act 2010, and to improve services and decision making for all communities.

3. What information we collect

We will collect responses to some discussion questions about community and belonging. We will collect demographic information via a written questionnaire.

• Your answers are anonymous.
• We do not collect your name or any identifying details.
• We do not link any responses to individuals.

We will only collect your personal information if you choose to join a mailing list to hear about the changes made as a result of this project or to enter a prize draw for taking part in public engagement events. This email address is kept separate from all responses to questions and questionnaires.

4. Why we collect this information

We collect anonymous feedback to:

• understand community experiences and needs
• assess whether the council is meeting its equality responsibilities
• improve services and decision-making
• strengthen relationships between the council and local communities

Your email address (if provided) is used only to send updates about the project or to inform the winner of the prize draw.

5. Lawful basis for processing

For anonymous questionnaire responses, no personal data is collected, so UK GDPR does not apply.

For mailing list sign‑ups, the lawful basis is consent. You can withdraw your consent at any time.

6. How your information is used and protected

• All responses are anonymous and cannot be traced back to you.
• VCSE partners process data securely on behalf of Cambridge City Council.
• Personal data like your name and email address (if provided) are stored securely and used only for project updates.
• Your information is never shared with third parties for marketing or unrelated purposes.

7. How long we keep your information

• Anonymous questionnaire data may be kept for research and reporting purposes, as it cannot identify individuals.
• Email addresses for the mailing list are kept until you unsubscribe or until the project ends.

8. Your rights

If you provide your email address, you have the right to:

• withdraw consent
• ask to have your email removed from the mailing list
• ask how your information is being used

Because questionnaire responses are anonymous, they cannot be altered or withdrawn once submitted.

If you no longer want us to hold your information or you want to withdraw, contact equalities@cambridge.gov.uk.

9. Contact

For questions about how your information is used, you can contact Cambridge City Council’s Data Protection Officer using the details provided in the council’s privacy notice.