Data Retention Policy

1. Purpose

This Data Retention Policy explains how COGNIORA CONSULTING LTD retains, reviews and securely disposes of business information and personal data.

We retain information only for as long as necessary to fulfil legal, contractual and operational requirements.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all records held by COGNIORA CONSULTING LTD, whether in electronic or paper format.

3. Retention Principles

We will:

• Retain information only for legitimate business purposes.

• Keep information accurate and up to date where practical.

• Securely dispose of information when it is no longer required.

• Review retained information periodically.

4. Standard Retention Periods

Record TypeRetention PeriodWebsite enquiries24 monthsGeneral business correspondence6 yearsClient contracts6 years after completionConsultancy project documentation6 years after project completionFinancial recordsMinimum 6 yearsSupplier records6 years after the business relationship endsMarketing consent recordsUntil consent is withdrawn or 2 years after the last interactionWebsite analyticsIn accordance with Google Analytics retention settingsComplaint records6 years after resolution

These periods may be extended where required by law or to establish, exercise or defend legal claims.

5. Secure Disposal

When information reaches the end of its retention period it will be securely disposed of by appropriate means, including:

• Permanent deletion from electronic systems where practical.

• Secure shredding of paper records.

• Secure deletion of backup copies where applicable and technically feasible.

6. Legal Holds

Where litigation, investigations or regulatory requirements apply, relevant information will be retained until the matter has been fully resolved, even if this exceeds the standard retention period.

7. Responsibilities

COGNIORA CONSULTING LTD is responsible for ensuring information is retained and disposed of in accordance with this policy.

8. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically and updated where necessary to reflect changes in legislation or business operations.

9. Contact

COGNIORA CONSULTING LTD

Company Number: 16743129

Registered Office

65 Knowl Piece
Wilbury Way
Hitchin
Hertfordshire
SG4 0TY
United Kingdom

Email:
enquiries@cognioraconsulting.co.uk