Culture House Sunderland Archive – Takedown Policy
- Introduction
Culture House Sunderland is committed to preserving and sharing historical materials through its digital archive. We strive to ensure all content is displayed responsibly, respecting copyright, privacy, and cultural sensitivities. If you believe that content within our collection infringes your rights or should not be publicly accessible, we encourage you to contact us so we can review your concerns.
- Grounds for Takedown Requests
We will consider takedown requests for content that falls under the following categories:
- Copyright Infringement – If you are the rights holder or their representative and believe an image has been used without permission.
- Privacy & Data Protection – If an image includes personally identifiable information that should not be in the public domain.
- Cultural Sensitivities – If an image is deemed offensive, misrepresentative, or inappropriate for public display.
- Ethical Concerns – If an image causes distress to individuals or communities, including but not limited to historical injustices, discrimination, or inappropriate portrayals.
- How to Submit a Takedown Request
If you wish to request the removal of content, please provide the following details:
- Your Name & Contact Information
- Details of the Image(s) in Question (including URL or reference number)
- Reason for Request (e.g., copyright ownership, privacy concerns, cultural sensitivity)
- Evidence of Ownership or Rights (if applicable)
- Requested Action (e.g., full removal, redaction, restricted access)
Requests can be submitted via:
- Email: local.historylibrary@sunderland.gov.uk
- Address: Local History Library, Washington Library, Independence Square, Washington, NE38 7RZ
- Review Process
- Upon receiving a request, we will acknowledge it within 5 working days.
- We will conduct an internal review, consulting relevant stakeholders if necessary.
- A decision will be made within 30 days, and we will inform you of the outcome.
- If the claim is valid, we may temporarily remove the content while reviewing the case.
- Possible Outcomes
After reviewing the request, we may take one of the following actions:
- Remove the Content – If it violates copyright, privacy laws, or ethical guidelines.
- Restrict Public Access – If full removal is unnecessary but limited access is appropriate.
- Retain the Content – If there is no legal or ethical basis for removal, with an explanation provided.
- Appeals Process
If you disagree with our decision, you may submit an appeal within 14 days of our response, providing additional evidence or context for reconsideration. Appeals will be reviewed by a senior member of our team.
- Disclaimer
Culture House Sunderland aims to balance historical preservation with legal and ethical responsibilities. Some materials in our collections reflect past perspectives that may not align with contemporary values. We encourage open dialogue and will consider all takedown requests in good faith.