PublicReport.uk uses cookies and similar technologies to help the site function properly, to understand how readers engage with our content, and to support our commercial operations. This policy explains what cookies are, which categories we use, how you can manage your consent, and how we retain data. It forms part of our broader commitment to transparency, as set out in our Privacy Policy.
What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device by your web browser when you visit a website. They allow the site to remember your preferences, recognise you on return visits, and gather information about how you interact with pages. Cookies may be set by PublicReport.uk (first‑party cookies) or by trusted third‑party services we use (third‑party cookies).
Categories of Cookies We Use
We group cookies into four categories, each serving a distinct purpose:
Essential Cookies
These cookies are necessary for the basic operation of the website. They enable core functions such as page navigation, secure access to areas behind logins, and the management of your cookie consent preferences. Without them, the site cannot function properly. Essential cookies do not require your prior consent.
Analytics Cookies
We use analytics cookies to understand how visitors use PublicReport.uk — which articles are read most, how users navigate between sections, and where traffic originates. This information helps us improve our editorial offering and user experience. Data collected is aggregated and anonymised where possible. Analytics cookies are non‑essential and are only set with your consent.
Advertising & Affiliate Tracking Cookies
Advertising cookies help us manage the display of advertisements on our site and measure their effectiveness. Affiliate tracking cookies allow us to record when a reader clicks on a product or service link (e.g. book purchases) and may result in a small commission for PublicReport.uk. These cookies are non‑essential and require your consent. Sponsored content and affiliate links are clearly labelled and governed by our Advertising & Affiliate Disclosure.
Embedded Media Cookies
Our articles sometimes include content from third‑party platforms such as YouTube, Twitter/X, or other social media services. When you view a page containing such embedded media, the provider may set cookies to track your interaction with their content. We request your consent before loading non‑essential embedded media, and you can manage these preferences at any time.
Consent for Non‑Essential Cookies
For visitors in the United Kingdom and the European Union, we obtain your explicit consent before placing any non‑essential cookies. When you first arrive on PublicReport.uk, a consent banner appears, allowing you to accept or reject each category. You can also customise your preferences by clicking the “Cookie Settings” link available in the footer of every page.
If you wish to change your preferences after your initial choice, you may:
- Use the “Cookie Settings” link on our site to adjust your consent at any time.
- Adjust your browser settings to block or delete cookies. Please note that disabling essential cookies may affect site functionality.
Retention of Cookie Data
Cookies are stored on your device for different periods. Session cookies are deleted when you close your browser. Persistent cookies remain for a specified duration — typically up to 12 months for analytics and up to 30 days for affiliate tracking — after which they expire or are automatically removed. We retain aggregated, non‑identifiable data for longer periods to analyse long‑term trends.
Your Rights and Further Information
This cookie policy is part of our wider privacy framework. For details on how we handle personal data collected through cookies and other means, please see our Privacy Policy. If you have any questions about our use of cookies or wish to exercise your data protection rights, contact our privacy team at privacy@publicreport.uk.
To reach us by post or through other channels, visit our Contact page. For more about how we operate, you can read our Editorial Policy and our AI & Automation Policy.