At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure compliance with information rights legislation through managing Reclosure and Takedown requests.
- Company: The National Archives, a key institution in preserving UK history.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a mix of onsite and remote work, plus excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in safeguarding public access to information.
- Qualifications: Strong research, communication skills, and knowledge of information rights legislation required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
This post enables The National Archives to remain compliant with information rights legislation – the Freedom of Information Act and Data Protection Act – by undertaking work on Reclosure and Takedown at The National Archives. Reclosure occurs when information in open records may be subsequently closed by The National Archives. Takedown applies to material on The National Archives’ website and those of our commercial partners (where the content has come from The National Archives), as well as to webpages preserved in the UK Government Web Archive. The circumstances in which Reclosure or Takedown are required are outlined in our Takedown and Reclosure Policy.
An important part of this role involves managing Reclosure and Takedown requests relating to digital records and information, including those transferred to The National Archives by Public Inquiries and other short-term bodies such as Independent Inquiries. As a result, this work will also include providing advice and assistance on the work of Inquiry bodies, to ensure that the correct access decisions are made ahead of the transfer of Inquiry records to The National Archives.
This role will report to the Reclosure Panel, who are responsible for the reclosure of records, and the Takedown Panel, who oversee Takedown decisions. These are internal Panels composed of staff with expertise in Freedom of Information (FOI) and Data Protection, along with records and catalogue specialists from across The National Archives. Reclosure and Takedown cases need careful handling, with balanced and considered recommendations submitted to the Reclosure and Takedown Panels, to ensure that appropriate action is taken in a timely manner.
An important part of this role therefore is to keep those involved with Reclosure and Takedown regularly informed of progress; you will need to judge when to escalate concerns to senior management, to ensure not just compliance, but to maintain a level of good customer service, while safeguarding TNA’s reputation.
This role is based within the FOI Centre, to ensure that there is a consistency of approach towards Reclosure, Takedown, and compliance. Using your knowledge of information rights legislation, you will undertake research, review information flagged for Reclosure or Takedown, and support access decisions for these records. You will also be expected to carry out research into closed records in response to FOI requests, assess whether exemptions apply to those records, and correspond with requesters. As a result, you will develop expert knowledge regarding the application of the FOI Act and related information rights legislation.
Working to tight deadlines, the role requires strong decision making and communication skills, as well as the ability to organise a heavy workload. This is a full time post. However, requests for part-time working, flexible working and job share will be considered, taking into account at all times the operational needs of the Department.
A combination of onsite and home working is available and applicants should be able to regularly travel to our Kew site for a minimum of 60% of their work time. SC clearance/willingness to obtain SC clearance will be required for this role. This requires candidates to have been resident in the UK for at least the past three years. Please do not apply if you have been resident in the UK for less than three years as your application will be rejected. We are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
- Demonstrable ability to carry out research into records, assimilate lots of information, analyse textual content, and summarise findings clearly and concisely.
- High standard of communication, both written and verbal.
- Confident and able to negotiate at a senior level across government departments.
- Strong team-working skills, coupled with the ability to work on own initiative.
- Demonstrate ability to make decisions, using sound judgement, escalating issues as required.
- Commitment to providing a professional service to the public and/or to other government departments.
- Ability to work to deadlines, work well under pressure, and work flexibly in approach to prioritise/balance demanding workloads and targets.
- Knowledge of the Freedom of Information Act 2000, Data Protection Act 2018 and related legislation.
- High level of IT literacy, including strong knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, and SharePoint.
- Use of case management/tracking systems.
Information and Access Compliance Assessor in London employer: The National Archives, UK
The National Archives is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises compliance with information rights legislation while fostering a culture of collaboration and professional growth. Employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, including a blend of onsite and home working, and have the opportunity to develop expertise in Freedom of Information and Data Protection within a supportive team. Located in Kew, staff enjoy access to beautiful surroundings and a commitment to maintaining a high standard of public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Information and Access Compliance Assessor in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those who work with information rights legislation. A casual chat can lead to insider tips or even job leads that aren't advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the Freedom of Information Act and Data Protection Act. We want you to be able to discuss how you’d handle Reclosure and Takedown requests confidently!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your decision-making skills! During interviews, share examples of how you've made tough calls in previous roles. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the responsibilities of the role effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Information and Access Compliance Assessor in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Information and Access Compliance Assessor. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission at The National Archives!
Showcase Your Knowledge:Demonstrate your understanding of the Freedom of Information Act and Data Protection Act in your application. We’re looking for candidates who can clearly articulate their knowledge of these legislations and how they apply to the role.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The National Archives, UK
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Freedom of Information Act and Data Protection Act. Understanding these laws is crucial for the role, so be prepared to discuss how they apply to Reclosure and Takedown processes.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Be ready to demonstrate your ability to carry out thorough research and analyse information. You might be asked about a specific case or scenario, so think of examples where you've successfully navigated complex information and summarised findings.
✨Communication is Key
Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare to discuss how you would communicate decisions and escalate issues when necessary, showcasing your strong verbal and written communication skills.
✨Time Management Matters
This position requires working under tight deadlines, so be prepared to talk about how you prioritise tasks and manage your workload. Share examples of how you've successfully balanced multiple responsibilities in previous roles.
