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New DWP Data Access Policy

Access to the DWP Customer Information Service (CIS) and other sensitive personal data over the internet will be prohibited as of April 2009 and will only be available over a secure connection.

This means that authorities delivering housing and council tax services need to implement Government Connect. An exemption process is in place for a maximum period of six months for those authorities committed to implementation, but require more time.

• DWP has established this policy to meet its obligations in accordance with the data protection act and government guidelines.
• Other central government departments involved in the exchange of sensitive personal data with local authorities may soon adopt a similar position to DWP.
• Access to enhanced DWP business processes dependent on the transfer of sensitive personal data will only be possible via a secure connection such as GCSX.
• E-Transfer – automating transfer of DWP data to LAs such as LA Input Document (LAID) from Jobcentre+ and LA Claim Information (LACI) from Pensions Service.
• HERS – improving bulk exchange of data between LAs and DWP and enhancements to CIS including addition of Tax Credit and ESA related data.
• In and Out of Work – streamlining, through use of electronic forms, processing of benefits as people start and leave jobs.
• Tell Once – providing more citizen centric services by improving citizen data handling across government