Last updated: April 2026
This Cookie Policy explains how Next Steps ("we", "our", or "us") uses cookies and similar technologies when you visit our website. By continuing to use our website, you agree to the use of cookies as described in this policy.
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files placed on your device when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work correctly and to remember your preferences between visits. This website also uses browser localStorage, which works similarly to cookies but stores data locally on your device rather than sending it to a server.
Cookies can be:
- Session cookies: temporary cookies that are deleted once you close your browser.
- Persistent cookies: stored on your device until they expire or you delete them.
- First-party cookies: set directly by the website you are visiting.
- Third-party cookies: set by external services (e.g. analytics or advertising providers).
2. Our Approach
Next Steps Finance is committed to your privacy. We use only the minimum storage necessary to make the website function correctly. We do not use:
- Advertising or marketing cookies
- Third-party tracking cookies (e.g. Google Analytics, Facebook Pixel)
- Profiling or behavioural targeting technologies
- Any cookies that share your data with third parties
3. Cookies and Local Storage We Use
The table below lists every item we store on your device. All items are strictly necessary or functional - they exist solely to make the website work as you would expect.
| Name | Type | Purpose | Expires |
|---|---|---|---|
| ns-cookie-consent | localStorage | Stores your cookie consent choice so we do not show the banner on every visit. | Until cleared |
| ns-read-topics | localStorage | Remembers which financial topics you have read so your progress dashboard stays up to date. | Until cleared |
Both items are stored only in your browser and are never transmitted to our servers or shared with any third party.
4. Legal Basis (UK PECR and UK GDPR)
Under the UK Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) and UK GDPR, strictly necessary cookies and storage items do not require your prior consent because they are essential to deliver the service you have requested. Both items listed above fall into this category.
We still present a cookie notice as a matter of transparency and good practice, so you are always aware of what is stored on your device.
5. Managing Cookies
You can clear all locally stored data at any time through your browser settings. The steps vary by browser:
- Chrome: Settings > Privacy and security > Clear browsing data
- Firefox: Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data > Clear Data
- Safari: Settings > Privacy > Manage Website Data
- Edge: Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Clear browsing data
Clearing this data will reset your reading progress and cookie preference. The website will continue to work normally.
For more details on managing cookies, visit aboutcookies.org.
6. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, law, or our practices. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated date. We will never introduce non-essential cookies without updating this policy and, where required by law, obtaining your consent first.
7. Contact Us
For more information about how we handle your personal data, please see our Privacy Policy. If you have any questions about our use of cookies, please contact us.