Join the Network

Copyright and Intellectual Property Policy

Dementia Funders' Network

1. Purpose

This policy sets out how the Dementia Funders' Network manages copyright and intellectual property to protect the rights of people affected by dementia, researchers, partners, and the organisation.

As a dementia funder, we are committed to ensuring that all materials are used ethically, lawfully, and with respect for individuals who may have reduced capacity.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all content produced, commissioned, or published by [Charity Name], including:

  • Research reports and funded outputs
  • Grant applications and summaries
  • Educational and training materials
  • Website and digital content
  • Images, audio, and video
  • Personal stories and case studies
  • Social media content

3. Legal Framework

This policy aligns with UK legislation, including:

  • Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988
  • Data Protection Act 2018
  • UK GDPR

4. Ownership of Copyright

4.1 Charity-Owned Content

Unless otherwise stated, copyright in materials created by employees of the Dementia Funders' Network in the course of their duties is owned by the charity.

4.2 Commissioned Work

Copyright ownership for commissioned work (e.g. research, design, consultancy) will be clearly defined in written agreements.
The charity will normally seek:

  • A licence to use, reproduce, and distribute the work
  • Rights to publish findings for public benefit

4.3 Funded Research

Where Dementia Funders' Network funds research:

  • Researchers typically retain academic ownership
  • The charity retains rights to:
    • Publish summaries and reports
    • Use findings for awareness and fundraising
    • Share outputs with stakeholders

5. Personal Stories and Lived Experience Content

Given the nature of dementia, additional safeguards apply.

5.1 Informed Consent

We will obtain informed consent from:

  • The individual, where they have capacity
  • A legally authorised representative, where they do not

Consent will cover:

  • How the content will be used (e.g. fundraising, awareness, reporting)
  • Where it will appear (e.g. website, media, publications)

5.2 Ongoing Consent

We recognise that capacity and circumstances may change.

  • Consent will be reviewed periodically
  • Individuals or representatives may withdraw consent at any time

5.3 Ethical Use

We will:

  • Avoid distressing, misleading, or exploitative portrayals
  • Represent individuals with dignity and respect
  • Ensure stories are accurate and not taken out of context

6. Licensing and Use by Third Parties

Unless otherwise stated:

  • Content is protected by copyright
  • It may not be reproduced without permission

We may allow:

  • Non-commercial use with attribution
  • Use under a specified licence (e.g. Creative Commons), where appropriate

Requests for reuse should be directed to:
info@dementiafundersnetwork.org

7. Third-Party Content

When using third-party materials, the Dementia Funders' Network will:

  • Obtain appropriate licences or permissions
  • Provide proper attribution
  • Maintain records of usage rights

We will not knowingly use content that infringes copyright.

8. Accessibility and Responsible Communication

As a dementia-focused organisation, we commit to:

  • Using clear, accessible language
  • Avoiding stigma and harmful stereotypes
  • Ensuring materials are suitable for diverse audiences, including people with cognitive impairment

9. Data Protection and Confidentiality

Where content includes personal data, it will be handled in accordance with:

  • UK GDPR
  • Data Protection Act 2018

This includes:

  • Secure storage of consent records
  • Limiting access to sensitive materials
  • Removing or anonymising data where appropriate

10. Breach and Enforcement

Misuse of Dementia Funders' Network content may result in:

  • Requests for removal or correction
  • Withdrawal of permissions or licences
  • Legal action where appropriate

Internal breaches may be addressed through disciplinary procedures.

11. Responsibilities

  • Staff: Ensure compliance with this policy
  • Communications team: Manage permissions and licensing
  • Grant managers: Ensure contracts address IP rights
  • Trustees: Provide oversight and governance

12. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually and approved by the Board of Trustees.