Privacy and Data Protection

Data Protection Concerns and Complaints

What can I complain or raise a concern about?

You can complain to the Council about how it is handling your own personal information (or personal information about people you represent), if the Council:

  • has not properly responded to a request for personal information;
  • is not keeping information secure;
  • holds inaccurate information about you;
  • has disclosed information about you;
  • is keeping information about you or others you represent for longer than is necessary;
  • has collected personal information for one reason and is using it for something else; or
  • has not upheld any of your data protection rights.

Who do I complain to?

If you are dissatisfied with the way we handle your personal data, you should contact our Data Protection Officer to raise a concern or complaint in the first instance:

  • In writing:  Data Protection Officer, Shetland Islands Council, Corporate Services Department, 8 North Ness, Lerwick, Shetland, ZE1 0LZ
  • By phone: 01595 744 551
  • By email:  dataprotection@shetland.gov.uk

Verification and ID

If you are not known to us personally, you will be asked to verify your identity before we can proceed.

When can I expect a response?

We will acknowledge receipt of your complaint within three working days.

We will consider your complaint or concern and provide a response as soon as possible and within 30 calendar days. If our investigation will take longer, we will tell you and agree on revised time limits and keep you updated on progress.

If you are dissatisfied with the Council’s response, you can contact the Information Commissioner’s Office:

Please note if your complaint is NOT about a data protection matter or does not concern the handling of personal information, please contact us using the Council’s Complaints Handling Procedure Make a Complaint – Shetland Islands Council