Cookie Policy
About cookies
Cookies are small files saved on your device when you visit a website. They make the site work and remember your preferences (such as login, language, or accessibility features). Cookies cannot be used to identify you personally.
We use cookies to:
- Enable essential functions, like login and preferences
- Remember your cookie choices
- Analyse how visitors use the website so we can improve it (with anonymised data)
- Support embedded content (like YouTube videos), if you consent
You can control or delete cookies in your browser. You can also update your preferences any time via the Cookie Settings page.
Types of cookies we use
Strictly necessary cookies
These are always on and required for basic site operation.
| Name | Purpose | Expiry |
|---|---|---|
| cookies_consent | Remembers your cookie settings | 1 year |
| PHPSESSID | Maintains session/log in | Session |
Analytics cookies
Used to understand how visitors use our site, so we can make improvements. Analytics data is anonymised and not used for advertising.
| Name | Purpose | Expiry |
|---|---|---|
| _ga | Unique anonymous visitor stats (Google Analytics) | 13 months |
| _gid | Session visitor stats (Google Analytics) | 1 day |
| _ga_* | Session scope analytics | 13 months |
Marketing & third-party cookies
Set by external services (e.g. YouTube video embeds). If rejected, placeholders are shown instead of embedded content.
| Name | Provider | Purpose | Expiry |
|---|---|---|---|
| YSC, VISITOR_INFO1_LIVE | YouTube | Video playback, stats | Session / 8 months |
| NID | Ad and YouTube preferences | 6 months | |
| Marketing cookies | Various | Other embedded content | Varies |
How to manage your cookies
- You can update your cookie preferences at any time via the Cookie Settings page or your browser’s settings.
- For more about cookies and how to control/delete them, visit aboutcookies.org or allaboutcookies.org.
How we use and share your information
- We do not use cookies to collect personal information without your consent.
- Analytics cookies are anonymised and not used for profiling.
- Usage data may be shared, in aggregate, with trusted technology suppliers or public bodies.
- Embedded third-party services (e.g. YouTube) only set cookies if you accept marketing cookies.
Your rights
Under the UK GDPR you have the right to:
- Understand what data we collect and how it’s used
- Access, rectify or erase your personal data
- Withdraw consent for optional cookies at any time
- Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office
To contact us about cookies or your data, please email: dftTESTprogramme@paconsulting.com
Changes to this policy
This policy may be updated. The latest version will always be available on this page.
More info:
- Cookie Settings — Control your preferences
- Privacy Policy — How we handle your personal data