Cookie Policy

Effective Date: 01 October 2026

Version 2.0

Scope

This Cookie Policy applies to all visitors and users of the GCMU websites and applications. It explains how cookies and similar technologies are used to operate, analyse, and improve our online services in accordance with applicable data protection laws, including the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Policy

GCMU believes in transparency about collection and use of data. This policy provides information about how and when GCMU uses cookies for these purposes. Capitalised terms used in this policy but not defined have the meaning set forth in our Privacy Policy, which also includes additional details about the collection and use of information at GCMU.

GCMU may update this Cookie Policy periodically to reflect changes in technology, applicable law, or our services. Updates will be posted on this page with a new effective date.

What is a cookie?

Cookies are small text files sent by us to your computer or mobile device, which enable GCMU features and functionality. They are unique to your account or your browser. Session-based cookies last only while your browser is open and are automatically deleted when you close your browser. Persistent cookies last until you or your browser delete them or until they expire.

Does GCMU use cookies?

Yes. GCMU uses cookies and similar technologies. GCMU uses both session-based and persistent cookies. GCMU sets and accesses cookies on the domains operated by GCMU and its corporate affiliates (collectively, the “Sites”). In addition, GCMU uses Squarespace Analytics cookies, which are considered first-party cookies because they are set under GCMU’s domain, though provided by Squarespace’s platform.

How is GCMU using cookies?

Some cookies are associated with your account and personal information to remember that you are logged in and which workspaces you are logged into. Other cookies are not tied to your account but are unique and allow us to carry out analytics and customisation, among other similar things.

Cookies can be used to recognise you when you visit a Site or use our Services, remember your preferences, and give you a personalised experience that is consistent with your settings. Cookies also make your interactions faster and more secure. See the “Cookies Tables” below to learn more.

Categories of use

  • Authentication: If you're signed into the Services, cookies help GCMU show you the right information and personalise your experience.

  • Security: GCMU uses cookies to enable and support security features, and to help detect malicious activity.

  • Preferences, features, and services: Cookies denote which language you prefer and what your communications preferences are. They can help filling in forms on our Sites more easily. They also provide you with features, insights, and customised content.

  • Performance, Analytics, and Research: Cookies help GCMU learn how well the Sites and Services perform. GCMU also uses cookies to understand, improve, and research products, features, and services, including to create logs and record when you access our Sites and Services from different devices, such as your work computer or your mobile device.

What third-party cookies does GCMU use?

You can find a list of the third-party cookies that GCMU uses on our sites along with other relevant information in the “Cookies Tables” section below. GCMU does its best to keep this table updated, but please note that the number and names of cookies and other technologies may change from time to time.

What can you do if you don't want cookies to be set or want them to be removed?

You have the option to disable and delete cookies that may not be necessary for the basic functionality of our website. Visitors can manage their cookie preferences through the cookie banner or settings tool displayed upon their first visit to the site. You may update your preferences at any time by revisiting the cookie settings link in the site footer. The GCMU application (“Registry”) only uses necessary cookies and thus, does not offer a cookie manager.

Does GCMU respond to Do Not Track Signals?

The Sites and Services do not collect personal information about your online activities over time and across third-party websites or online services. Therefore, “do not track” signals transmitted from web browsers do not apply to the Sites or Services, and GCMU does not alter any data collection and use practices upon receipt of such a signal.

Cookies Tables

Strictly Necessary Cookies

These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you which amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms. You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but that will cause some parts of the site to not work.

Performance Cookies

These cookies (GCMU uses Squarespace Analytics) allow us to count visits and traffic sources on the website, so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site and will not be able to monitor its performance.