Privacy Policy

Last updated: 27 July 2026

1. Introduction

SME Bridge ("we", "us", "our") is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal data responsibly. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, share, and protect personal information when you use our services, including our website https://smebridge.co.uk/. We operate as a Freelance Recruiting Agency, connecting freelancers with businesses worldwide. This Policy governs SME Bridge's own collection and use of personal information. It does not govern how freelancers and businesses independently exchange personal information with each other once introduced through our platform; each party remains responsible for how they handle that information themselves.

2. Information we collect

Personal information: name, email address, phone number, business name, portfolio links, CV, payment information. Automatically collected: IP address, device info, browsing behaviour, cookies and analytics data.

As part of our vetting process, we verify freelancers via a live video call. We do not collect or retain copies of government identification documents. We do retain portfolio materials, CVs and other professional information provided by freelancers, which we use to create and maintain their profile within our network.

3. How we collect information

Contact forms, website registration, social media, advertising, Apollo, cookies, and emails.

4. How we use information

To match freelancers with clients, communicate updates, process payments, improve services, manage ads, comply with laws, and prevent misuse.

5. Legal basis (UK GDPR)

Consent, contractual necessity, legitimate interest, and legal obligation.

6. Third-party services

Google Ads, Google Analytics, Apollo, GoDaddy, Netlify, Stripe (future), PayPal (future).

7. Cookies

We use essential cookies that are necessary for our website to function correctly, and non-essential cookies for analytics and advertising performance. Non-essential cookies are only set with your consent. When you first visit our site, you will be asked to accept or reject non-essential cookies. You can change your preference at any time using the "Cookie Settings" link in the footer of our website.

8. International transfers

Handled under UK GDPR with safeguards such as Standard Contractual Clauses and adequacy decisions.

9. Data retention

We retain freelancer profile and portfolio data, and client account data, for as long as your account remains part of our network. We do not automatically delete this data after a period of inactivity. If you would like your data removed, you can request this at any time by contacting info@smebridge.co.uk, and we will delete it unless we are required to retain certain records by law (for example, financial or tax records).

10. Data protection

Secure servers, encryption, access controls, PCI-DSS compliant payment processors.

11. Your rights (UK GDPR)

Access, correction, deletion, restriction, objection, portability, withdraw consent. Contact info@smebridge.co.uk to exercise your rights. You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), the UK's data protection regulator, at ico.org.uk, if you believe your data has been mishandled.

12. Children's privacy

Not intended for users under 16.

13. Changes to this policy

We may update this policy periodically. Continued use of our services means acceptance of the updated policy.

14. Contact

SME Bridge - Email: info@smebridge.co.uk - Website: https://smebridge.co.uk/