The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), the UK's data protection regulator, has launched a free online training programme called ‘Data Protection Essentials’, aimed at small and medium-sized organisations and sole traders across the UK.
What the programme includes
The course is designed to help organisations and their staff understand data protection requirements and apply them confidently in day-to-day operations. It includes real-world examples tailored to different sectors and addresses common activities such as sharing information, managing records securely, marketing and customer engagement, and reducing the risk of data breaches.
According to the regulator, the programme was developed in response to research showing many smaller organisations want more clarity on what data protection means in practice and how to apply it day-to-day, especially where there's no dedicated data protection expertise.
The benefits to businesses
Key benefits for businesses taking part include:
- Improving how they manage and protect people's information.
- Using personal data confidently while reducing risk.
- Involving colleagues to build shared knowledge across the organisation.
- Understanding legal responsibilities more clearly.
- Demonstrating a commitment to protecting personal information and building trust.
Certification for individuals and organisations
Individuals completing the training receive a digital certificate that they can share publicly. Organisations can also undertake a short self-assessment and once completed, also earn a certificate and the option to be listed on a public Data Protection Essentials register.
Faye Spencer, the ICO's Head of Business Services, said the programme was designed “to be flexible, self-paced and easy to fit around busy working days. It breaks data protection into achievable steps that help build confidence over time. Our aim is to give organisations the confidence to use personal information responsibly and effectively, helping them build trust, reduce risk and achieve their goals”.
If your business handles personal data but does not have dedicated compliance expertise, this free training could be a cost-effective way to improve staff awareness and reduce risk. The ICO’s Data Protection Essentials page can be found here.
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The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. As far as we are aware, the content is accurate at time of publication. Torgersens assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.
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