The Cornwall Federation of Women’s Institutes (CFWI) complies fully with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) which came into effect in 2018.
The UK GDPR was created to reinforce the protection of personal information as a fundamental right. The main aims of the regulation are to empower individuals to take more control of their personal data by giving them stronger rights; and to hold the organisations who collect and store personal data accountable.
CFWI holds personal information about all of our members, in order to help carry out your membership. This may include such things as your name, address, email address, telephone number, bank details and photographs. We also may, in some instances, hold what is referred to as Special Category Information; this may include information about your health or about any disability you may have.
We use this information, according to GDPR, fairly and lawfully; for limited, specifically stated purposes; in a way that is adequate, relevant and not excessive; and in accordance with your data protection rights. The information is not kept for longer than is absolutely necessary and is kept safely and securely.
At any time, you have a right to request to see the personal information we hold about you through a Subject Access Request (SAR). An SAR is a request made by or on behalf of an individual, that asks an organisation to provide a copy of the personal information they hold relating to that individual. There’s no formal way of submitting a Subject Access Request – you may make the request verbally, via social media, etc.
However, the more detail you can provide us about the information you are requesting, the easier it will be for us to provide you with what you want. You may choose to use our online SAR form. You don’t have to use this form to ask for copies of your data, but it’s helpful for us to know what you’re looking for so we can respond fully and promptly.
If you would like more details about submitting an SAR, there is good guidance on the website of the Information Commissioner’s Office.