DWP issues Notice for offshore HR Data Processing by SSCL

pcsfylde News
The following details have been supplied by PCS DWP Group:

Fair processing notice issued

DWP has issued a Fair Processing Notice today, as required under the Data Protection Act 1998, to inform all staff that Shared Services Connected Limited (SSCL) intends to process their personal data, relating to HR, payroll, procurement and finance, offshore, in India, from February 2016. This Notice is published on the DWP Intranet together with a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) briefing.

PCS opposes offshore processing

Offshore processing of DWP HR Data has been part of the planned Operating Model since the creation of SSCL in November 2013. PCS has opposed the transfer of DWP staff and work to SSCL including the intention to offshore processing. PCS will continue to oppose offshore processing and demand the return of this work to the civil service.

Compliance with Data Protection Act

The Departmental Trade Union Side (DTUS) has been consulted about the implementation of offshore processing. PCS has worked to ensure that SSCL offshore processing will comply with the Data Protection Act. DWP has confirmed that all processing will comply with the Act. The only basis for an individual to object is outlined under the 13th FAQ where, under Section 10 (1) of the Act, an individual may object in writing on the ground that, for specified reasons, the processing of personal data offshore is likely to cause that person, or another, unwarranted substantial damage or distress. However, Section 10(2) of the Act confirms that this right does not apply in certain circumstances, listed under Schedule 2, which include when the individual’s consent is not required for data processing for performance of a contract with the individual or compliance with any legal obligation.

DWP information security

No HR data will be held offshore. All of the HR data will continue to be stored in the UK. Strict information security physical, procedural and technical controls will apply at the processing centre in India. Offshore staff will only be able to view data they need to undertake their tasks and responsibilities and will not have the ability to copy data in any way through any medium.

Further information

Further information is provided by DWP in 15 Frequently Asked Questions, issued with the Fair Processing Notice, which conclude with a DWP contact point for any further queries.