Legal Officer / Information Governance Officer

Job Details

Work Pattern: 36.25 Hours per week, Minimum 3 days per week onsite

PAYE Pay Rate: £27.29 per hour

Main Purpose of the Role

To support Basildon Council’s Information Governance and Legal teams in ensuring compliance with data protection and freedom of information legislation.

The role involves managing information requests, particularly Subject Access Requests (SARs), Freedom of Information (FOI) requests and Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) requests. You will provide advice to colleagues, review sensitive information, redact documents and ensure all requests are handled accurately and within statutory deadlines.

Typical Day Overview

  • Manage and respond to incoming Subject Access Requests (SARs), FOI and EIR requests.

  • Review documents and identify sensitive or confidential information requiring redaction.

  • Ensure requests are processed within statutory deadlines.

  • Provide advice to council officers on GDPR, data protection and information governance matters.

  • Investigate and record personal data breaches, ensuring appropriate actions are taken.

  • Assist with complaints and enquiries from members of the public.

  • Review privacy policies, procedures, privacy notices and data protection documentation.

  • Maintain accurate records of information requests, complaints and data breaches.

  • Work alongside the Information Governance Manager, Data Protection Officer and Legal team.

Key Skills and Responsibilities

Information Governance & Legislation

  • Strong practical knowledge of UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

  • Understanding of Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA).

  • Knowledge of Environmental Information Regulations 2004 (EIR).

  • Ability to interpret legislation and ICO guidance.

Subject Access Requests & Redaction

  • Experience managing complex Subject Access Requests.

  • Reviewing large volumes of documentation and identifying sensitive information.

  • Applying exemptions and carrying out appropriate redactions.

  • Ensuring information is disclosed accurately and lawfully.

Data Protection & Compliance

  • Supporting data breach investigations and maintaining incident logs.

  • Monitoring data protection compliance and assisting with audits.

  • Reviewing privacy notices, policies and procedures.

  • Maintaining records of processing activities and data lifecycles.

Communication & Stakeholder Management

  • Providing clear and practical advice to council officers.

  • Responding to public enquiries and complaints.

  • Communicating effectively with elected members, colleagues and external stakeholders.

  • Working collaboratively with Legal, Customer Services and Information Governance teams.

Essential Requirements & Qualifications

  • Relevant qualification and knowledge of data protection legislation.

  • Practical understanding of the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR.

  • Understanding of local and national government legislation.

  • Excellent IT skills, particularly:

    • Microsoft Word

    • Microsoft Excel

    • Microsoft Outlook

    • SharePoint

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • Strong attention to detail, particularly when reviewing and redacting sensitive documents.

  • Ability to manage competing workloads and meet strict statutory deadlines.

  • Ability to handle confidential and sensitive personal information appropriately.