ICO to launch GDPR helpline for small businesses

The line will go live on 1 November, ahead of the new regulation coming into force on 25 May 2018.

The ICO has said it is simplifying online resources including an infographic and SME toolkit, in response to calls from small businesses that they need targeted information about how to prepare for the new law.

Additionally, the current GDPR overview hosted on the ICO website will be replaced with a comprehensive guide by the end of 2017.

According to research from the Direct Marketing Association (DMA), up to 15% of businesses have not yet made any plans for GDPR. 

Information commissioner Elizabeth Denham said: “There are 5.4m businesses in the UK that employ fewer than 250 people. When it comes to data protection, surveys show they tend to be less well prepared. Most businesses want to get things right but often struggle to find the key steps to get started. They also have less time and money to invest. They may not have compliance teams or data protection officers or access to legal advice.”

She added: “The businesses may be small but they still hold important personal information and the need to gain the trust of their customers is just as real.”