In this episode of the Compliance Culture Podcast, host Lucinda Carney, Chartered Psychologist and CEO of Actus Software, speaks with data protection expert Sarah Hodgkin-Bates to explore the critical intersection between HR and compliance. Particularly in the handling of employee personal data. Together, they unpack how a culture of transparency and collaboration can be promoted through responsible data management, and why this is essential for building trust across an organisation. The conversation covers key legal frameworks such as GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, and dives into practical challenges including managing access to sensitive employee records, navigating Subject Access Requests (SARs), and ensuring appropriate data retention. This episode highlights how compliance and HR must work hand-in-hand to uphold ethical standards and protect employee rights.

Key Takeaways

• HR and compliance are deeply interconnected, both play a vital role in building trust, protecting individuals, and shaping ethical workplace culture. 
• Transparency and clear communication are essential foundations for effective data protection. When organisations openly communicate how personal data is handled, it reinforces trust and demonstrates respect for employees and applicants alike.
• Robust access controls, secure password practices, and well-defined data retention policies are critical safeguards that help prevent breaches and ensure sensitive information is only available to authorised personnel.
• Subject Access Requests (SARs) should be approached with clarity and confidence, not fear.
• Embedding compliance into the fabric of company culture, through clear policies, regular reviews, and proactive leadership, not only protects employees and sensitive data but also strengthens organisational reputation and resilience.

Valuable Resources

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About Actus Software

Actus helps HR and business leaders drive performance and engagement through flexible HR software and expert resources.

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About The Guest, Sarah Hodgkin-Bates

Sarah Hodgkin Bates specialises in both data protection and HR, offering integrated solutions that meet the needs of both disciplines. With a background in strategic risk and compliance, she is known for her ability to simplify complex issues and deliver practical, people-focused outcomes. Sarah works closely with organisations to incorporate data protection into their culture, and is a confident speaker and trainer who supports teams in building sustainable compliance practices.

Contact Sarah

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-hodgkin-bates-35a035177/

About The Host, Lucinda Carney

Lucinda Carney is a Chartered Psychologist, CEO of Actus Software, and host of the award-nominated, chart-topping HR Uprising Podcast. With over 20 years’ experience in organisational development and leadership, Lucinda has worked across a wide range of industries helping HR professionals establish behavioural change and accountability. Her passion for collaboration led her to create the HR Uprising community, empowering HR professionals to ‘rise up’ together. Now, Lucinda brings her expertise into a new space, exploring the human side of compliance through expert conversations with industry leaders and practicing compliance professionals.

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