Data Protection and Freedom of Information Paralegal - 05610

Are you an experienced and motivated Data Protection and Freedom of Information Paralegal looking for an exciting new opportunity within a dynamic legal team? West Berkshire Council is seeking a Paralegal to provide essential support in data protection and freedom of information matters, working alongside the Principal Lawyer to ensure compliance and deliver high-quality legal services.

About The Role

As a Data Protection and Freedom of Information Paralegal, your key responsibilities will include:

• Assisting with the management and handling of data protection requests, including subject access requests.
• Supporting the Principal Lawyer in providing legal advice and guidance on data protection and freedom of information issues.
• Conducting research and analysis to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.
• Maintaining accurate records and documentation related to data protection and freedom of information requests.
• Collaborating with internal stakeholders to provide advice on data protection implications.

The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and attributes:

• Previous experience working in a legal environment, with a focus on data protection and freedom of information.
• Good understanding of data protection legislation, including the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and Data Protection Act 2018.
• Familiarity with freedom of information legislation and its application.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple requests and prioritise effectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail.

If you are a proactive and enthusiastic individual, with a passion for data protection and providing excellent legal support, we would love to hear from you.

Please note this role is fixed term until 31/05/26 - Maternity cover.

Benefits

West Berkshire Council offer excellent employment benefits such as:

• Flexible working wherever possible between the hours of 07.00-21.00
• Hybrid working wherever possible working 40% in the office
• Access to a wide range of training and development opportunities
• Generous Local Government pension scheme
• Family friendly policies
• A range of local discounts
• Wellbeing Programme including Employee Assistance Programme and employee benefits
• You will also be entitled to a generous annual leave entitlement starting at 28 days per annum (plus public holidays) Rising by an additional 5 days after 5 years service.

Please note that the closing date is given as a guide. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

This post is a Sensitive Post for the purpose of the Local Government Housing Act 1989 and the post-holder is therefore restricted from engaging in any prescribed political activities. In summary, this means that you are prohibited from holding political office and from involvement in any political activity within or outside the workplace. Full details of the restrictions can be found in the Council's Policy and Guidance on Politically Restricted Posts.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Claire Say on 01635 519640 or email claire.say@westberks.gov.uk.

Join us at West Berkshire Council and make a positive impact in our community while advancing your career.

Equal Opportunities

The Council supports Equal Opportunity of employment, and positively encourages applications from people who fall within any of the nine protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.

How To Apply

Please now complete a short online application form. You will then be able to upload your CV.

This role has been identified as public facing in accordance with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016; the requirement to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence in English applies.