Information Management Policy

Information governance is an essential component of organisations across all sectors. Data protection laws1 implemented in 2018 have been key drivers in developing an updated, rigorous policy to guide the organisation in the management of the information it collects and processes. Both the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 have given individuals greater control over their personal data, whilst also promoting principles and safeguards that the Council will implement and promote. Moreover, the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and the Local Government Transparency Code 2015 provide regulations allowing public access to information held by public authorities and set out the minimum data that local authorities should be publishing, as well as guidelines for this.

Basildon Council is committed to the implementation of good Information Management practice. This will help ensure that data is consistent and appropriately confidential, whilst also maintaining integrity and availability of data across all levels of the workforce. Appropriate guidelines and training will be available for all officers regarding the management of both physical and electronic information assets held by Basildon Council, in line with the requirements of this policy.