Anyone registered with I.C.O? Any advice or tips

[MUM2BLESS]

Just getting ready to submit my application to them. Found it very wordy.

Its amazing having to pay £35 because we use digital cameras and store on computers.

Did they ask you for more info or query what you did?

Any comments appreciated.

You are right, it is complete nonsense. I doubt that the world will end if you ignore it though.

I sent mine off and they sent back acknowledgment, no additional questions

I am registered, no further info asked for.

MrAnchovy It might be rubbish, but it is a legal requirement and it is something the NCMA have reminded members about and my Ofsted inspector checked I was registered. Unfortunately you can be fined for not registering, however pointless registration in itself is!

I phoned them & told them i was a cm, they sent the forms which i signed and returned. No questions asked. Due to renew soon, hope that goes as smoothly. I have added a piece in my policies about it.

It is the ICO's interpretation of the law.

Of course Ofsted is also reknowned for over-enthusiastic interpretation of the law until slapped down by the courts or government.

Write to your MP, start an e-petition, try to galvanise your professional organisation into some active lobbying instead of just passing on bad news...

[this is most unlike me, not sure what I have been drinking over Christmas ]

Thanks everyone.

Done it now.

I did read that you can be fined if you do not register. Not worth ignoring.

What are you doing differently now you are registered with ICO?

mum2bless nothing different at all. Data Protection is essentially common sense, delete photos when children leave, password protection, that sort of thing - but for me, like you, a £35 fee was also better than running the risk of a fine.

I thought about registering just before my inspection a few months ago. Then decided it was a nonsensical rip off waste of money so didn't. Glad I didn't as my inspecotr never mentioned it. Might vaguely think about it in another 3 years when inspection is next due but will probably take the view again that it's a waste of money and if anyone ever pulls me up on it ( which I doubt, as they have far bigger fish to fry than a CM ) I will just plead ignorance.