Privacy Policy
Last updated: [DATE]
This directory is run by The Garden Route Dignity Fund NPO ("we", "us") to help people in Plettenberg Bay find local services, and to let registered users share information that can assist first responders in an emergency. This page explains what information we collect, why, and what you can do about it.
1. Information we collect
If you just browse the directory
We don't collect anything about you personally. Browsing categories and service listings doesn't require an account.
If you create an account
- Username and password (your password is stored as a one-way hash — we never store or can see your actual password).
- Your WhatsApp/phone number, verified by you sending us a short code over WhatsApp.
- Address details, if you choose to provide them.
- Medical Notes and Access Notes, if you choose to provide them. These fields exist specifically so that, in a genuine emergency, first responders (paramedics, first aiders, police, rescue services) can be given information that helps them help you faster — for example, a medical condition they should know about, or how to safely get onto your property. Filling these in is entirely optional.
If you list a service
Service listings (name, description, contact details, website, NPO number, logo) are public by design — the point of the directory is for people to find and contact these services. Don't include anything in a service listing you don't want publicly visible.
2. How we use your information
- Account details: to let you log in and manage your own listing(s).
- WhatsApp number: solely to verify it's really you when you register, using WhatsApp's own messaging system.
- Medical Notes / Access Notes: only disclosed to genuine first responders in an actual emergency situation. They are not used for any other purpose, not shown publicly, and not shared with service providers listed in the directory.
3. Who we share information with
We use Meta's WhatsApp Business Platform to verify phone numbers during registration. When you send us a verification code over WhatsApp, that message passes through Meta's systems, subject to WhatsApp's own privacy policy. We don't sell, rent, or otherwise share your personal information with anyone else, except where required by law or to protect someone's safety in an emergency.
4. How long we keep information
We keep your account information for as long as your account exists. If you'd like your account deleted, contact us at gaus1e@hotmail.com and we'll remove it within 30 days.
5. Security
Passwords are hashed, never stored in plain text. Access to the admin dashboard is restricted to authorized administrators. No online system is completely secure, and we can't guarantee absolute security — please don't put anything in Medical Notes or Access Notes that you wouldn't be comfortable a system administrator being able to see, since administrators do have technical access to this data in order to operate the directory.
6. Your rights
- You can view and update your own account details at any time via My Profile.
- You can ask us what personal information we hold about you.
- You can ask us to correct or delete your information — contact us using the details below.
7. Cookies
We use a single session cookie to keep you logged in. We don't use advertising or analytics cookies, and we don't track you across other websites.
8. Children's information
This directory is not intended for use by children. If you believe a child has created an account or been listed without appropriate consent, please contact us and we'll remove it.
9. Changes to this policy
If we make significant changes to this policy, we'll update the date at the top of this page.
10. Contact us
Questions about this policy, or about your information: gaus1e@hotmail.com.