What is GDPR and why is it important? 

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a set of data protection rules which ensures fair and proper use of information about people. It covers everyone about whom you keep personal data – from employees and volunteers, to service users, members, supporters, and donors.

Understanding GDPR and your responsibilities towards Data Protection is important for all charities and not-for-profit organisations to protect both you and the people your organisation interacts with. If your organisation holds personal data (for example names, addresses, phone numbers), you need to be compliant with GDPR regulations. Failure to meet GDPR regulations could result in disciplinary action by Information Commissioner’s Office, the government department responsible for monitoring and enforcing data protection.

How to make sure your not-for-profit organisation is GDPR compliant

At our one-to-one support sessions, at a time and date to suit you, we can give you advice on a wide range of data protection issues, tailoring all information to your charity or community group. The session could include:

• An overview of the Principles of GDPR legislation
• Your organisation’s obligations and duties
• How to write a Privacy Policy

We will also signpost you to other resources and organisations which could help and, if appropriate, introduce you to other local charities.

Following the 1 hour session, you will receive a list of the resources discussed in the session to help you move forward. We will also agree a date to follow up with you to review progress and give further support if needed.

Who should attend?

These sessions are for charities, social enterprises and other voluntary and community groups already delivering services in Buckinghamshire, as well as for people looking to set up new organisations delivering services in Buckinghamshire.

Your adviser

Your adviser will be Nosh Fiaz, VCSE & Community Development Officer. Nosh works across various Community Impact Bucks projects, including the Volunteer Matching Service and Community Transport, and has been part of the support team since January 2022.

Booking your place

Please complete our short request for support form to arrange your online advice session at a convenient time and date. It can be held over the phone but you may find it more beneficial to access the service online via Zoom if possible.

Online resources

• For further guidance and top tips on GDPR, go to our GDPR online resources.
• The Information Commissioner’s Office provides a self assessment toolkit to assist with the various elements that may or may not impact your data protection needs. Visit ICO’s website to access its self assessment toolkit.