Information Access Officer

Lancashire County Council; Preston; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent local authority in Preston is seeking an Information Access Officer to support transparency and data protection standards. The successful candidate will manage information requests and ensure compliance with legal frameworks such as FOIA and UK GDPR. Ideal applicants will have experience in administrative roles related to information governance and possess strong communication and organizational skills. The role offers a competitive salary and a supportive work environment, aiming for top-notch public service and accountability.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Local Government Pension Scheme

26 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Staff discount scheme

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience managing requests under FOIA and UK GDPR.
• Strong background in information governance or compliance.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

Responsibilities

• Manage requests for information under FOIA, EIR, and UK GDPR.
• Provide advice on data protection legislation.
• Ensure current legal knowledge and compliance.

Skills

Understanding of FOIA, EIR, UK GDPR

Experience in administrative role

Strong organisational skills

Excellent communication skills

Commitment to discretion

Job description

Salary £32,061-£36,363 Per annum | Permanent, Full Time, 37 hours per week | Preston

Lancashire County Council is the fourth largest local authority in England, and we are committed to making Lancashire the best place to live, work, visit, and prosper.

We are currently seeking a highly capable and motivated Information Access Officer to join our Information Governance Team. This is a key role in supporting the council’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the safeguarding of personal data.

As an Information Access Officer, you will play a vital role in ensuring the council meets its statutory obligations, particularly during periods of organisational change.

You will be responsible for managing requests for information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA), Environmental Information Regulations 2004 (EIR), and the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR).

We are looking for a professional with experience of working within a political environment and who has a strong understanding of delivering high-quality, efficient, and inclusive public services.

The successful candidate will demonstrate excellent communication skills and a proven ability to manage complex issues with confidence and discretion.

You will work collaboratively with internal services and external stakeholders to ensure timely and compliant responses to information requests, upholding the council’s legal responsibilities and public service values.

This role is based within a small, supportive team operating in a large and complex public sector organisation. Applicants should be able to evidence relevant experience in a similar role, ideally within the public sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage requests for information under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and the Environmental Information Regulations 2004
• Manage requests for personal data under the provisions of the UK General Data Protection Regulation and Data Protection Act 2018
• Provide advice and assistance to council employees with regards to all aspects of data protection legislation (UK GDPR/DPA), FOI and EIR
• Ensure legal knowledge and awareness remain current and in line with legislative updates and best practice

What We’re Looking For

• A strong understanding of FOIA, EIR, UK GDPR, and the Data Protection Act 2018 and practical experience of supporting individuals to exercise their information rights.
• Experience in a busy administrative role, ideally within information governance, legal, or compliance settings.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to provide clear, confident advice and support to colleagues and the public.
• A commitment to discretion, confidentiality, and the principles of good governance.

Closing Date: 04/01/2026

By joining Lancashire County Council, you can shape the career path that is right for you, with opportunities to gain personal and professional qualifications, coaching, and mentoring. Lancashire County Council truly is the place where you can have the career you've always wanted.

In return for your passion and expertise, we offer a generous benefits package, which includes:

• A competitive salary and Local Government Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions.
• A great holiday entitlement of 26 days annual leave, which increases with length of service. You will also be entitled to 8 Bank Holidays, 2 additional statutory Bank Holidays, and have the option to buy additional leave each year.
• Our staff discount scheme in partnership with Vivup, allowing you to access discounts with a range of UK retailers, saving on everything from weekly food shops to white goods and cars.
• Access to fantastic development and career opportunities.

Please refer to the job description and personal specification for further information regarding the scope of work and responsibilities for the post. Please ensure you address all the essential criteria from the person specification at the application stage in your supporting evidence. Some criteria will also be addressed further at the interview stage.

Please take care to upload your supporting documentation before submitting your application. No additional documentation will be accepted after the closing date.

Interviews will be held at County Hall, Preston, PR1 8XJ, date TBC

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications.

• Locations County Hall, Preston, PR1 8RE, GB