Who we are

Controller: Lives of Joy (“we”, “us”).
Contact: [email protected].
Website: livesofjoy.com

What we collect

• Newsletter signups: email address (and optionally name).
• Contact forms: name, email, message content.
• Story submissions: name, email, story text, optional bio.
• Basic technical data: IP address, browser/device info, and usage data (only if analytics is enabled).

Why we collect it

• To send the newsletter you asked for.
• To reply to your messages and requests.
• To review and publish story submissions (with your consent).
• To keep the site secure and functioning.
• To understand what content is useful (if analytics is enabled).

Legal bases (EU/UK style)

• Consent (newsletter, optional cookies).
• Legitimate interests (site security, basic improvements).
• Contract / pre-contract steps (if you purchase or register for paid events later).

Who we share data with

We only share data with service providers needed to run the site, such as:

• Web hosting and infrastructure providers
• Email/newsletter provider (e.g., Mailchimp / ConvertKit / Brevo)
• Form provider (if applicable)
• Analytics provider (if enabled)
• Spam protection (e.g., Akismet / reCAPTCHA)

Add the exact services you use here.

International transfers

Some providers may process data outside your country. Where required, we rely on appropriate safeguards (such as Standard Contractual Clauses) or equivalent mechanisms.

How long we keep data

• Newsletter data: until you unsubscribe.
• Contact messages: typically up to 12–24 months (unless needed longer for a specific reason).
• Story submissions: retained while considered/published; you can request removal.
• Security logs: retained for a limited period as needed for protection.

Your rights

• Access, correction, deletion
• Withdraw consent at any time
• Object to processing (in some cases)
• Data portability (where applicable)
• Complain to a data protection authority

To exercise your rights, email [email protected].

Cookies

See Cookie Policy for details on cookies and similar technologies.

Changes

We may update this policy from time to time. Updates will be posted on this page with a new “Last updated” date.