31 March 2026
Generally Recognised Standards for use in the data protection purpose ‘archiving purposes in the public interest’
In May 2025, following the introduction of the Data (Use and Access) Bill into the UK Parliament, the Archives and Records Association UK & Ireland (ARA) noted the requirement to agree “generally recognised standards” relating to the data protection purpose “archiving purposes in the public interest”. Together with other sector bodies ARA agreed to commission a specialist consultant to draft the generally recognised standards with the support of data protection specialists from the archive and records management sector. The proposal involved the sector and leading sector organisations to ensure that the resulting standards are adopted across the sector without objection.
Naomi Korn Associates are delighted to have drafted these standards with input from the organisations listed below via nominated archivists and records managers with detailed and practical knowledge of data protection and archives and records.
The following partner organisations all agreed with the proposal:
- The National Archives
- National Records of Scotland
- Public Record Office of Northern Ireland
- Welsh Government Culture Division
- Information and Records Management Society
- Business Archives Council
- Scottish Council on Archives
- Archives and Records Council Wales
- British Records Association
As well as the ARA these organisations represent the archives and records management sector in the UK, both individuals and organisations.
The Information Commissioner’s Office also confirmed its support and was involved in the development of the standards as a consultee.
The Generally Recognised Standards are now published here.
Where record-keeping services are archiving in the public interest these standards should be applied.
Why not join us to learn more at our next running of Data Protection Law for Archives, Museums and Library Collections – 11 May 2026
This course offers:
- a clear explanation of how UK GDPR, the DPA 2018 and the DUAA 2025 apply specifically to archives, museums and libraries
- guidance on lawful bases for archiving, including consent-based transfers and purpose compatibility
- support in understanding exemptions, archival safeguards and risk-based decision-making
- space to explore your own scenarios, questions and organisational challenges
It’s designed for archivists, records managers, heritage professionals, librarians, collection managers, volunteers and trustees essentially anyone involved in taking, holding, cataloguing, providing access to, or making decisions about personal data in collections.
Book your place now via the link above or contact us for more information!