FamilyWareham Policies – Terms – Data Protection Conditions

FamilyWareham Policies – Terms – Data Protection Conditions

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🧬 About Us

FamilyWareham.co.uk operates as a genealogy research initiative based in England to explore and preserve the documented histories of individuals bearing the surname Wareham, Warham, or recognized variants such as Whareham.

Our mission focuses on building a comprehensive, verifiable genealogical archive that honours the legacy of the Wareham name.

🗃️ The Wareham Genealogical Database (WGD2025)

The Wareham Genealogical Database was launched in September 1995, originally using Lotus Approach (IBM). Later, a transition to Microsoft Access helped to improve functionality and performance.

Over time, the archive reduced from 750GB to 155GB, dramatically boosting search speed and research efficiency. Researchers now access records more quickly and with greater accuracy.

The database currently holds nearly 130,000 individual records, each representing a unique person. Each entry is curated to include:

  • First and middle names
  • Residential addresses
  • Key life events (birth, christening, marriage, death)
  • Family connections (parents, siblings, children, ages)
  • Source references and contributing researchers

Beyond storing raw data, information is also contextualised within each record to ensure it contributes meaningfully to the broader family narrative.

📌 Our Commitment – Privacy & Research Ethics – FamilyWareham.co.uk

Our aim to preserve and expand the documented legacy of the Wareham lineage. By maintaining detailed, verifiable records, support researchers, descendants, and historians in uncovering meaningful connections across generations.

Whether you’re tracing your ancestry, contributing new findings, or exploring the past, you are invited to collaborate to help grow the archive.

🔐 Genealogical Information Privacy & Protection

To protect sensitive data, the Wareham Genealogical Database (WGD2025) is maintained on a secure private computer system. Only designated administrators can access it to keep the database offline to ensure privacy.

Researchers should submit search inquiries using the official form at the bottom of Genealogy Page One. Requests sent via the Guest Book or Feedback Forms are not processed, as we routinely remove those entries to preserve data integrity and ensure proper handling and the source is identified.

🤝 Data Sharing & Research Collaboration

Collaboration is welcomed and ecouraged with fellow researchers to enrich and expand genealogical studies. To uphold ethical standards, we adhere to a formal exchange agreement.

Researchers who request data must contribute new and relevant findings related to the Wareham lineage research. In return, the offer of comparable information from our archive. Each exchange takes place through direct discussion to ensure transparency and mutual benefit.

This approach protects the integrity of our records and fosters meaningful partnerships across the genealogical community.

🗂️ Database Overview & Historical Scope

The Wareham genealogy project traces documented records back to 1086, including references to Hugonnis De Quarham (Hugh Wareham). Spanning nearly a thousand years, the archive offers a rare glimpse into the surname’s evolution and historical footprint.

Most entries focus on individuals from the 17th to 20th centuries, though the inclusion of earlier records from the 13th to 16th centuries are rare. These earlier entries contain limited detail due to scarce surviving documentation.

Available evidence suggests that individuals bearing the Wareham or Warham surname may have lived as early as 1150, or possibly before. Each record, regardless of era, deepens our understanding of the lineage and its enduring legacy.

🔒 Personal Data Protection & Site Policies

To safeguard the privacy of all visitors and contributors. As a strict policy, we never share personal data collected through communications (such as email) or voluntarily submitted via the website with third parties. All information is used solely for its intended research purpose.

📝 Guest Book Entries

A review all Guest Book submissions takes place to confirm their relevance to genealogical research and their suitability for public display. To protect your privacy, please avoid including sensitive personal details, as these entries remain publicly visible.

🔍 Search Form Submissions

Administrators securely handle all research inquiries submitted through the Search Form. These entries remain confidential and do not appear on the website.

Our team remains deeply committed to preserving historical accuracy and protecting the information entrusted to us.

📁 Media Uploads & Privacy Protection

In development is a secure drop-box system to allow visitors to upload genealogy-related documents and photographs. Although the design is still underway, your patience is appreciated as the work continues to ensure its security, reliability, and ease of use.

🖼️ Image Upload Guidelines

To protect your privacy, it is strongly recommended removing embedded location data (EXIF GPS) from images before uploading. Third parties can extract metadata, so taking precaution is essential.

Before submitting files, please review and verify the metadata. Contributors retain full responsibility for the content they provide. FamilyWareham.co.uk does not assume liability for errors, omissions, content accuracy, or consequences resulting from uploaded materials.

If such meta-data is detected, e.g.location data in a submitted file, we will make reasonable efforts to remove it. However, we encourage users to take proactive steps to safeguard their privacy before uploading.

📬 Contact Forms – Genealogical Search Requests

Are you searching for a missing Wareham or Warham ancestor or relative? Its possible we may be able to help.

To begin your inquiry, please use the Search Request Form on Genealogy Page One. For an accurate and effective search and kindly ask you to provide detailed information about the individual—not just a full name.

Helpful details include:

  • Approximate age
  • Known locations (birthplace, residence, burial site)
  • Relevant historical context (e.g. military service, migration, family connections)

The more information you provide, the better, to tailor our search and identify meaningful records and look forward to assisting you in uncovering your Wareham family history.

🔎 Search Process & Information Exchange

When you submit a search request, our team reviews the Wareham Genealogical Database thoroughly. If a relevant record(s) is identified, a summary of our findings will be sent to the email address you provided.

If you wish to explore the results further, we may invite you to join our Information Exchange Agreement. This process helps us keep shared data accurate, ethical, and mutually beneficial.

Please note: Although our database contains an extensive collection of genealogical records, we cannot guarantee information beyond what’s already available through public sources. Our team do not maintain undisclosed or proprietary archives. All findings rely on verifiable public and contributed data.

🔄 Data Contribution & Exchange Policy

A warm welcome to contributors who share Wareham or Warham-related materials—including photographs, family tree details, and historical documents. These contributions enrich our research and strengthen the overall genealogical record.

In line with our Information Exchange Agreement, reciprocate all contributions with relevant details from our database. Each exchange remains meaningful and mutually beneficial.

Our team remain firmly committed to ethical data-sharing practices that promote responsible collaboration and fair access to information.

Please note: We do not purchase information. All contributions are voluntary and intended solely for genealogical research.

🌐 Embedded Content from External Websites

To enhance the visual and informational quality of our site, we occasionally include embedded media—such as videos, images, articles, and hyperlinks—from third-party sources. These items behave as if you were viewing them directly on the original website.

Where applicable, we credit the original creators. Whenever possible, we replace borrowed content with original material created specifically for FamilyWareham.co.uk..

If a content owner objects to the use of their work, we either request permission or promptly remove the material. This direct approach helps us respect intellectual property while offering valuable resources to our visitors.

🛡️ Privacy & Third-Party Tracking

Some external websites may collect personal data, use cookies, and employ third-party tracking technologies. These tools can monitor your interactions with embedded content—especially if you’re logged into an account on the originating site.

To protect your privacy, we strongly encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party websites you visit. Understanding how these platforms collect, store, and use your data is essential for making informed decisions about your online activity.

🔗 Liability & External Links

Every effort is made to ensure that external links remain relevant, functional, and secure. However, FamilyWareham.co.uk does not take responsibility for issues caused by third-party websites or embedded content. These external sources operate independently, and cannot guarantee their availability, accuracy, or safety.

If you encounter a broken or problematic link, please let us know. We’ll update or remove it as needed.

All visitors are encouraged to exercise caution, verify the authenticity of external sources, and protect their personal data when interacting with third-party content.

📢 Advertising Policy

Requests are regularly recieved to add links and advertisements for external websites—many of which do not relate to genealogy or support our research goals. As a research-driven initiative, we prioritise content that directly contributes to the genealogical study of the Wareham family and its recognised variants.

For genealogy-related advertising proposals, a review of each request is made to ensure it aligns with our research objectives. We’re open to discussing collaboration terms on a case-by-case basis, provided the content supports our mission.

Although our primary focus remains on information exchange rather than commercial advertising, we recognise the financial realities of sustaining long-term research. Financial contributions are greatfully welcomed to support our ongoing efforts.

Donations are ethically allocated to enhance the scope, accuracy, and accessibility of our genealogical work. You’ll find the donation link in the sidebar on the home page.

Thank you for your consideration and continued support.

🚫 Cold Calls & Unsolicited Offers

Over time, we’ve received more than 9,000 unsolicited emails from cold-callers, automated bots, and commercial entities promoting paid services for website enhancements, traffic growth, or marketing strategies. We do not engage with these solicitations and have no interest in paid promotional services.

If you have a legitimate inquiry related to genealogy research, historical documentation, or ethical sponsorship, please reach out via our Contact page. The project remains committed to meaningful collaboration and to protecting the integrity of our research.

📊 Analysis of WGD2025

The Wareham Genealogical Database (WGD2025) stores and organises historical records of deceased individuals bearing the Wareham surname, including recognised variants such as Warham.

Our global database provides an efficient system for storing, searching, and retrieving genealogical data. Extensive cross-referencing enables researchers to trace relationships across generations with greater clarity and confidence.

To our knowledge, no other research initiative has mapped Wareham individuals to their families. The scope, depth, and precision of WGD2025 make it a uniquely valuable resource for anyone exploring the Wareham lineage.

🧩 Information Processing

The application of a multi-step processing system to all incoming genealogical data to ensure accuracy and integrity includes:

  • cross-reference each submission with existing records to check for duplication.
  • If the information is new, verify its source, assess its reliability, and update the appropriate record.
  • If no match exists, create a new entry and integrate it into the database.

The digitising of all physical documents and securely archive them. Once archived, destroy or recycle the originals to streamline data management and reduce redundancy.

This structured methodology allows WGD2025 to grow while strengthening historical connections among Wareham individuals worldwide.

✅ Information Verification Process

Following a strict verification protocol for all incoming data to uphold accuracy and integrity:

  • begin by reviewing each submission against existing entries to determine whether it’s already documented.
  • authenticate sources and assess reliability before making updates.
  • If no prior match exists, add a new record to the database.

As stated, digitise and securely archive all contact-related documents. Paper copies are disposed of responsibly to maintain a lean and secure data environment.

This process ensures that the Wareham Genealogical Database (WGD2025) remains accurate, efficient, and responsive to new discoveries.

🛡️ How your Data is Managed

a stylized shield with a family tree motif, symbolizing privacy and genealogical integrity

Fully comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and treat data privacy with utmost seriousness. Collecting or storing personal information about living individuals requires proper authorisation, clear justification, and strict adherence to data usage policies.

To uphold these standards, the Wareham Genealogical Database (WGD2025) stores records only for deceased individuals. This approach ensures that all genealogical data remains ethically sourced and legally compliant.

For living individuals, maintain a separate contacts file that includes only those who have given explicit consent.

🔐 Privacy & Data Handling

Safeguard personal data and use it solely for genealogical purposes. Never share information with third parties.

Retain data only with explicit consent and process it fairly, lawfully, and in full compliance with privacy regulations.

To minimise risk and maintain focus, collect only the information necessary for genealogical research and avoid storing excessive or irrelevant personal details.

If you’ve provided contact information, you may request a copy of the data held about you. If you wish to have your information deleted, will promptly honour your request.

🔄 Updating & Removing Data

Routinely update contact records to maintain accuracy and support reliable information management.

If you’ve shared personal data with us, you may request a copy of the information hdld. Upon request, will permanently delete your stored personal information without delay.

Store all contact data in a secure offline electronic file, inaccessible via the internet. This method protects sensitive information and ensures compliance with privacy standards.

🚫 Strict Policy on Living Individuals

Enforce a strict policy regarding the privacy of living individuals. Do not disclose any information about living Wareham or Warham individuals without their explicit consent.

Although we welcome legitimate genealogical inquiries, we have received requests seeking personal data on living Warehams—including children—that raise serious ethical concerns. Immediately deny suspicious or inappropriate requests and, when necessary, report them to the appropriate authorities. In summary: We welcome legitimate inquiries. However, suspicious requests are denied without exception. In serious cases, we report violations to the appropriate authorities.

In two separate cases, an individual attempted to bypass our safeguards by submitting identical inquiries from different addresses. After detecting the pattern, issued a formal warning and stated that further attempts would be referred to the United Kingdom Metropolitan Police Service for investigation. No further contact followed the notification.

This policy reflects our unwavering commitment to privacy, ethical research, and legal compliance.

📬 Managing Researcher Contacts

strictly follow privacy and safety standards when handling researcher contact requests. Never share the contact details of living individuals without their explicit consent.

All connection requests follow an indirect process that protects privacy:

  • When we receive a request, notify the individual and inform them that someone wishes to connect.
  • If they consent, share the requester’s contact details with them.
  • The individual may choose to initiate communication at their discretion. After that, step back and allow any further exchanges to proceed privately.

We’re always happy to facilitate researcher connections—but only when both parties agree and clearly establish consent.

🌍 Scope of the Wareham Project

The Wareham Project does not operate as a genealogical research service for building individual family trees. Each family remains responsible for conducting its own research, rather than relying on external sources for complete genealogical records.

For specific inquiries about individuals in our database, provide only the requested details—such as names, dates, or locations—in accordance with our Information Exchange Agreement.

Believe genealogy should remain an engaging and rewarding pursuit. To preserve the excitement of discovery, do not conduct exhaustive research on behalf of individuals. In short: will not research your family tree for you.

🗄️ Data Retention Policy

FamilyWareham retains personal data only as long as necessary to fulfil its original purpose. Never use data beyond its intended scope, and store it only with the owner’s explicit consent.

When the data is no longer needed—or if the owner withdraws consent— promptly and securely delete it from our records.

🧾 Your Rights Over Your Data

If you’ve provided contact information or submitted a research request through our website, store your data securely in our offline contact file. You have the right to:

  • Request copies of any communications or personal data we hold about you
  • Request the deletion of your personal information at any time

To initiate a data removal request, please visit the Contacts page and use the subject line: “Request to remove my contact data.”

Be sure to clearly outline your expectations and the reason for your request. Once we process your request, we’ll confirm the deletion via email.

🗄️ Data Retention & Past Deletions

Please note that some data may no longer exist due to the following circumstances:

  • Determined the information was unnecessary for retention
  • System upgrades inadvertently deleted certain records
  • During the COVID-19 lockdown, we experienced data loss while transitioning to Windows 10. Some contact records were lost during the transfer, and we securely destroyed old hard drives to protect data

Despite these events, we reassure all contributors that no current data remains at risk. Our systems stay secure, and we continue to uphold strict privacy and data management standards.

📚 Research Conduct & Accuracy

For more than 30 years, we’ve received inquiries and challenges regarding the accuracy and provenance of our genealogical research. Throughout this time, we’ve remained firmly committed to maintaining the highest standards of documentation and verification.

Source all information from verified, recognised, and properly documented records. This rigorous approach ensures that the Wareham Genealogical Database (WGD2025) continues to serve as a reliable and respected resource for researchers, descendants, and historians.

💬 Respectful Communication

Our team will not tolerate abusive or aggressive emails, feedback, or correspondence under any circumstances. While constructive inquiries are welcome and thoughtful challenges, ask that all communication remain professional and respectful.

Maintaining a courteous and collaborative environment allows us to focus on meaningful genealogical research and support genuine connections within the Wareham community.

🧭 Guidelines for Challenges & Inquiries

Welcome open dialogue from anyone seeking clarification or wishing to challenge information within the Wareham Genealogical Database (WGD2025). To support constructive discussion, please include:

  • The specific source of your claim
  • Supporting evidence relevant to the challenge
  • A clear explanation of your reasoning

Our approach emphasises collaboration, not disproving the work of others. Aim to foster thoughtful discussion and teamwork in genealogical research. If you identify discrepancies, please contact us—we’ll review the relevant sources accordingly.

Over the years, we’ve received several challenges to our data. In every case, we’ve re-verified the source and content. On a few occasions, we’ve amended our records, always with appreciation for the contributors who brought the issues to light.

🌐 Access & Website Policy

The FamilyWareham website focuses on Wareham family history and genealogy. As a closed platform, it does not offer account-based access, login services, or direct access to database records.

Manage all research inquiries and data exchanges exclusively through our contact forms. These interactions follow our Information Exchange Agreement, which keeps communication secure, purposeful, and aligned with our research standards.

©️ Copyright & Content Usage

The processes of updating our guidelines to clarify how users may use content from our website. The update will include restrictions on reproduction, redistribution, and citation.

📜 Terms of Use

Preparing a concise overview of acceptable website use to promote respectful and ethical engagement by all visitors. Update coming soon.

📝 Data Correction Requests

Drafting a clear policy to guide users who wish to request corrections to genealogical data. This update will explain how to submit a correction and what information to include.

🌱 A Final Word

Encourage all researchers to pursue their genealogical journeys with curiosity and care. May your work be rewarding, and your discoveries meaningful.

Good Hunting!

🔗 Helpful Sites of Interest

  • Genealogist Policy Handbook – Example Policies
  • Privacy and Genealogy handout.pdf

📚 Useful Resources

📂 Site Sections

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