Lessons in GDPR and cybersecurity for Scottish SPCA staff

One of Scotland’s leading charities turned to Clark Integrated Technologies to ensure its staff were well versed in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and cybersecurity ahead of the introduction of the biggest shake-up in personal data protection laws in a generation.

Animal charity Scottish SPCA sent staff back to the classroom for a practical lesson in GDPR awareness and cybersecurity, subjects which go hand in hand, ahead of the new regulation coming into force in May this year. For those unable to attend the bespoke session, an online alternative was provided.

Clark IT staff headed to the Scottish SPCA’s headquarters in Dunfermline and delivered the course to employees. The bespoke training covered the basic features of GDPR, presenting issues as case studies and generating engagement with employees and increasing the impact of the training.

Clark IT’s Austen Clark said: “This is a great example of good practice by a leading charity – as well as ensuring compliance in its operation, the Scottish SPCA trained its workforce around  GDPR before it came into effect, allowing them to become familiar with this major new legislative change and to have their questions and queries answered.

“The training session delivered by our staff covered governance, process and cybersecurity and was delivered to staff across the board – from employees working at grass roots level to directors.

“We shared insights, knowledge, examples and guidance and were asked relevant questions and some good points for discussion came up along the way.”

Organisations can raise their basic defences by enrolling on the Cyber Essentials initiative – and Scottish SPCA is one of a growing number of charities that has done just that, achieving its accreditation supported by Clark IT.

Austen added: “Data protection and cyber-security go hand in hand: privacy depends on security so it’s more important than ever that organisations focus on cyber-security. Top marks to the Scottish SPCA for its robust approach to both data protection and data security.”

Scottish SPCA’s Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn, who underwent the training said: “The Scottish SPCA is committed to protecting and respecting privacy, and we pledge take great care with personal data, protecting any personal information we obtain about individuals.

“This tailored session delivered by Clark IT provided practical and useful training, an in-depth insight into GDPR and greater awareness around cybersecurity.”