Cookie policy

This policy describes cookies and similar technologies used on the Open Council Network website. For how we use personal data more broadly, see our privacy policy.

What are cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit a website. They help the site remember settings, keep you signed in, or understand how pages are used.

Cookies we use

Strictly necessary

• Session and security: to keep you signed in and protect forms (for example CSRF protection).
• Council filter (council_filter): if you are not signed in, we may store your selected councils in a cookie so filters persist across visits (up to one year). Signed-in users’ filters are stored in their account instead.

Analytics

We use privacy-oriented analytics with outbound-link and event measurement, which typically does not rely on cross-site tracking cookies in the usual sense. In some instances, we may also use Google Analytics, which can set cookies to distinguish users and sessions. That use is subject to Google’s policies.

Advertising

For visitors outside the UK/EU who are not on a paid plan, we may load Google AdSense, which uses cookies or similar technologies to serve and measure ads. We do not show this advertising to visitors we treat as being in the UK or EU.

Managing cookies

You can block or delete cookies in your browser settings. Blocking strictly necessary cookies may prevent some features (such as staying signed in) from working. For analytics or advertising cookies, your browser’s privacy controls and any industry opt-out tools may also apply.

Contact

Questions about cookies: community@opencouncil.network.