We collect information you provide directly to us, including:

• Account Information: Name, email address, date of birth, gender, and profile photos when you create an account.
• Profile Information: Bio, interests, and other details you choose to share on your profile.
• Location Data: With your permission, we collect your precise location to show you nearby users and enable location-based features like the Live Map.
• Communications: Messages you send to other users through the app.
• Usage Data: Information about how you use the app, including features accessed and time spent.

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide, maintain, and improve our services
• Connect you with other users in your local area
• Show you on the Live Map when you choose to go live
• Send you notifications about matches, messages, and nearby activity
• Ensure the safety and security of our platform
• Respond to your comments, questions, and requests
• Monitor and analyse trends, usage, and activities

Location is central to ShoutSouthend's functionality. Here's how we handle it:

• Live Map: When you "go live", your location is shared with other users for up to 2 hours. You can end your session at any time.
• Crossed Paths: We may notify you when you've been near other users, helping you discover people in your community.
• Discovery: Your general area is used to show you nearby users.
• Control: You can disable location services at any time in your device settings, though some features may not work without it.

We take the security of your data seriously:

• All data is encrypted in transit using TLS/SSL
• We use Firebase's secure infrastructure for data storage
• Access to user data is strictly controlled and logged
• We regularly review our security practices
• Photos are stored securely with access controls

With your permission, we send push notifications for:

• New messages from other users
• Connection requests and matches
• Nearby activity and events
• Safety alerts and important updates

You can manage your notification preferences in the app settings or disable them entirely in your device settings.

You have control over your data:

• Access: You can request a copy of your data at any time.
• Correction: You can update your profile information in the app.
• Deletion: You can delete your account and all associated data from the Settings page.
• Opt-out: You can opt out of marketing communications and disable notifications.
• Pause Discovery: You can hide your profile from discovery while keeping your account.

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us:

Email: luke@owntimestudios.com

We aim to respond to all enquiries within 48 hours.