About SWICG

Our aim is to provide mutual support, encouragement, education, and an open forum where we can raise queries, and share concerns on issues that affect our work.

Our Chairman and Executive Committee provide direction and overall strategy on behalf of the group and facilitate the provision of the group’s activities, such as seminars and group meetings.

We have good working relationships with central government organisations such as the Information Commissioner’s Office and the Ministry of Justice. In the past the Commissioner’s Office has consulted with us on key areas such as notification templates for local authorities.

What do we do?

Meet regularly as a full group once a year, and in addition, we have established Data Protection, Freedom of Information and Information Management sub-groups that meet several times a year to discuss topical issues and share experiences. 

These sub-groups are outcome-focused, and aim to produce practical down-to-earth guidance on areas such as disclosures, subject access and Freedom of Information. All South West Group members are invited to take part in these groups. Diary dates will be emailed to you on joining the group, through our website and forum. 
Provide seminars and workshops on key issues affecting our organisations such as practical implementation of the Freedom of Information Act, and how to manage subject access requests.Produce practical guidance at a modest cost, including a model Data Protection Code of Practice that can be adapted to your needs and given to your staff to support your Data Protection policy. Provide a website with members-only open forum for Data Protection and Freedom of Information queries and comments, where we can share good practice and guidance.  

A copy of our Constitution can be downloaded by clicking here . 

Interested in joining?

Membership is free of charge, although there is a nominal lunch or administration fee to cover costs if you attend group meetings and training days. Click here to join us. 
If you would like general information, news and updates contact us.