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Privacy Policy

Last updated: 12 January 2026

This privacy policy explains how Childcare Calculator ("we", "us", "our") collects, uses, and protects information when you use our website at childcare-calculator.co.uk.

Information We Collect

Calculator Data

All childcare calculations are performed locally in your web browser. The data you enter into the calculator (hours, costs, provider types) is:

• Stored only in your browser's local storage
• Never transmitted to our servers
• Never shared with third parties
• Automatically deleted when you clear your browser data

Analytics

We may use Google Analytics to understand how visitors use our site. This service collects:

• Pages you visit
• Time spent on the site
• Your approximate location (country/city level)
• Device and browser type
• How you arrived at our site

This data is anonymised and used only to improve the site. You can opt out of Google Analytics by installing the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on.

Cookies and Local Storage

Essential Storage

We use local storage (not cookies) to save your calculator history and preferences. This allows you to:

• Save multiple calculation scenarios
• Compare different childcare options
• Return to your saved calculations later

You can clear this data at any time using the "Clear All" button in the calculator or by clearing your browser's local storage.

Third-Party Cookies

Our site may use third-party cookies from:

• Google Analytics: For anonymous usage statistics
• Google AdSense: For displaying relevant advertisements

These services may use cookies to provide personalised content and measure ad effectiveness. You can control cookie preferences through your browser settings.

Advertising

We use Google AdSense to display advertisements on our site. Google and its partners may use cookies and other tracking technologies to:

• Show ads based on your interests
• Measure ad performance
• Prevent showing ads you've already seen

You can opt out of personalised advertising by visiting Google's Ads Settings or www.youronlinechoices.com.

Data Security

Since we do not collect or store personal information on our servers, there is minimal data security risk. All calculator data remains on your device and is under your control.

Your Rights

Under UK data protection law (UK GDPR), you have the right to:

• Access any personal data we hold (none in this case)
• Request deletion of your data (simply clear your browser storage)
• Opt out of analytics and personalised advertising
• Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)

Children's Privacy

Our service is not directed at children under 16. We do not knowingly collect information from children. The calculator is designed for adult parents and guardians to estimate childcare costs.

External Links

Our site may contain links to external websites (such as gov.uk for Tax-Free Childcare applications). We are not responsible for the privacy practices of external sites. Please review their privacy policies separately.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this privacy policy from time to time. The "Last updated" date at the top will reflect any changes. Continued use of the site after changes indicates acceptance of the updated policy.

Contact Us

If you have questions about this privacy policy, please visit our Contact page.