Last updated 9th March 2023
The General Data Protection Regulation 2018 (GDPR) came into effect on 25 May 2018, impacting on all parishes in relation to the personal data they hold.
This page is updated periodically with new information, but we strongly recommend that you identify a Parish Data Officer and carrying out a data audit as soon as is practicable if you haven.
You need to read this introductory article on our news pages which was also featured in the Diocesan magazine 'The See' sent to most parishes in the Diocese.
A copy of our Clergy Data Consent form and Laity Data Consent form are available.
More information (including full Q and As; checklists and audit forms) can be found on Church of England Parish Resources website.
GDPR Awareness for PCCs and Parishes - more advice for parishes.
A comprehensive suite of GDPR e-learning courses is now available for anyone within the Church of England structure (dioceses, cathedrals, parishes and other CofE organisations).
The courses, delivered by specialist training provider Me Learning, cost £10 + VAT (£12) per course.
The Church of England’s Parish Buying team has negotiated a substantial discount with Me Learning for a period of three years from May 2018. (This type of course usually starts at around £25 and can cost up to £395).
Background
Training is considered by the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) to be one of the measures organisations should take towards compliance with the new data protection regulation.
This training has been made available to help ensure that your parish is taking the steps to comply with GDPR. It is recommended that in parishes at least one person, other than the incumbent, takes one of the courses.
The courses:
For more information, including how to access the training, please read this guidance