Your challenges
Information is power. Make no mistake – you will face more and more informed requests for information. The spotlight is on public bodies. Everything you do and write is open to public scrutiny. You need to work on the basis that information will be read and analysed by others. Good information governance must be a priority. The Information Commissioner is getting more powerful and you will face greater powers of inspection and fines for beaches. It is controversial, high profile and you need to get it right!
Achieving your ambitions
It’s about making sure you have proper processes in place to manage information. Together with you, we get the balance right so that proper information is released to avoid censure but ensuring sensitive issues are properly managed. Our experts are helping the NHS manage data and handle requests properly and fairly. We can help you understand the interrelated issues of data protection and freedom of information. We are working right now on polices, training, practical action to protect confidential information, handling requests and dealing with the Information Commissioner. We can audit your polices and publication schemes and raise the profile of information governance at board level and across your trust.
The strength you need
Our team has the insight and experience you need to get the right solutions. Sitting on NHS Information Governance committees, we work with boards and information managers on a practical level and have dealt first hand with difficult requests for sensitive information. Using our judgement, we work to disclose information which is fair and proper and have successfully drafted refusal notices that do the job. You can trust us to give you quick and practical advice.
Lawyers you can trust
Personal recommendation is always best. We are proud of our service. Competing against stiff competition from other lawyers, we have recently been appointed to advise and train several PCTs (not all being regular clients) at board and senior level on all aspects of information governance. Seen as cost effective, we are delighted to be trusted with this high profile work.
Legal 500 2009 said: "Jill Mason's team is the top choice for health: whatever you need, they will be able to help."
Legal 500 2010 said: "the response times are remarkable and the acumen and knowledge excellent."