Data Protection for Councillors

Councillors handle personal data when campaigning, when helping with complaints and queries from constituents, and in their role as panel and committee members. The Information Commissioner, who regulates the Data Protection Act, now has powers to fine organisations who breach DP anything up to £500,000. Three of the four fines issued so far have been against councils. The same powers now exist for misuse of email, phone and text promotions and websites - the Commissioner has previously used his powers for this area against all the major political parties.

Councillors are clearly on the IC radar, as he is actively campaigning to ensure that they complete their annual notification of how they use data (and threatening to prosecute those who do not). The use of personal data has never been of more concern to the public, and councillors need to be aware of the implications for both themselves and their councils.

This course will:

• Ensure that you have completed your notification correctly
• Check that your use of data on paper, computers, laptops and other devices is secure
• Find out what you can share, and who with
• Be certain that your campaigns, election communications and websites comply with the law
• Carry out your official duties effectively without breaching the DPA
• Learn to avoid the pitfalls of social media, emails and other electronic tools

Programme 

• What is the Data Protection Act, and what are the main features?
• The Councillor's role - notification, security, and access to data
• Using personal data outside council and party offices
• Campaigning and promotion
• Social media, email, websites
• The future for Data Protection

Who should attend: Councillors, Democratic Services staff or others who work with councillors on a regular basis

Councillor courses can be run morning, afternoon and evening to suit councillor availability and busy schedules. Please contact us for more information.

 

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