Agenda item - Strategic Risk MAP Focus - SR10 Information Governance Management

Report of the Director of Finance (copy attached).

77.1         The Committee considered a report of the Director of Finance in relation to the Strategic Risk Management Action Plan Focus – SR10 Information Governance Management. The meeting was attended by the Head of ICT who provided an introduction covering some of the following keys points. There had been a complete review of information polices, and an appointment of a Senior Information Risk Officer. Significant work had been undertaken on staff training and creating areas of accountability across the Council. Work had also been undertaken around records management and retention schedules. Audits had also been undertaken to assess where data was held across the Council and how this was managed and disposed of. Pressure related to resources and capacity, but it was envisaged an information management culture could be nurtured.

77.2         The Chair asked about the risk in this area and it was explained that there were new processes and practices which were bedding in such as working with the Police and a more mobile and flexible workforce, and this meant the risk remained high.

77.3         The Director of Finance noted the volume of work done in this area in the last few months, and highlighted there was still a considerable amount to complete. Assurance was given to the Committee that there were enough resources being provided to properly address these issues.

77.4         Following a query from Councillor Sykes the Head of ICT explained that there was an ever growing demand for information, and this had to be reconciled against the need to deliver this safely and securely.

77.5         The Head of Law and Monitoring Officer highlighted the information governance was not about restricting access to information, but ensuring openness where it was appropriate.

77.6         RESOLVED – That the Committee note the update from the Head of ICT.