Privacy Policy

Who we are

The Alder Index ("we", "us") is an online directory that helps families in Hong Kong find children's specialists — such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists — and connect with them. This policy explains what personal data we collect, how we use it, and the choices you have. We handle personal data in accordance with the Hong Kong Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (PDPO).

What we collect

• Account details — your name and email address when you create an account.
• Information about your child that you choose to provide — for example a first name or nickname, age, and the areas of concern you describe in the quiz or in an inquiry. You control what you share; share only what you're comfortable with.
• Messages — the inquiries and conversations you exchange with practitioners through the site.
• Practitioner profile information — details practitioners submit about their own practice for public listing.
• Usage data — anonymous analytics about how the site is used (pages viewed, features used). We ask for your consent via the analytics banner, and this data contains no personal details.

How we use it

• To operate the directory, quiz, and messaging features.
• To pass your inquiry to the practitioner(s) you choose to contact.
• To send you service emails (e.g. confirming your account, notifying you of replies).
• To understand how the site is used and improve it.

We do not sell personal data, and we do not use it for third-party advertising.

Who we share it with

• The practitioners you contact — when you send an inquiry, its contents (including anything you wrote about your child) are shared with that practitioner or clinic so they can respond.
• Service providers — we use reputable providers for hosting, database, and email delivery, who process data on our behalf under their own security commitments.
• Legal requirements — if required by law or a valid legal process.

Children's information

Information about children on this site is provided by their parents or guardians. We do not knowingly collect personal data directly from children. What you share with a practitioner's school or anyone else stays your choice — the relationship is between you, your child, and the practitioner you engage.

Cookies & analytics

We use essential storage to keep you signed in and remember your preferences. Our analytics are anonymous, are used only to improve the site, and run only if you accept them in the consent banner. You can decline without losing any functionality.

Security & retention

Data is stored with established cloud providers using encryption in transit and at rest. We keep personal data only for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide the service. Deleting your account removes your personal data, your children's information, your messages, and your behavioural trail from our systems.

Your rights

Under the PDPO you may request access to, and correction of, your personal data. You can view and edit most information directly in your account, export your data from account settings, or delete your account entirely. For anything else, contact us and we'll help.

Changes & contact

We may update this policy as the service evolves; material changes will be reflected in the "last updated" date above. Questions or requests: hello@thealderindex.com or the feedback form.