Free data protection training for small businesses
Sign up for Data Protection Essentials training
The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has launched a free online training programme to help sole traders and small and medium-sized organisations get to grips with data protection.
Data Protection Essentials is designed for businesses with fewer than 250 employees that do not have a Data Protection Officer and are not carrying out high-risk data processing.
What's included
The training consists of 13 short modules, each taking 10 to 15 minutes to complete. You can work through them at your own pace and invite up to two other people from your organisation to take part.
At the end, a lead person completes a short self-assessment. You'll get tailored advice on how your business handles personal information and where small improvements could make the biggest difference.
Benefits for your business
Completing the programme will help you:
- strengthen everyday data protection practices
- protect customer, staff and supplier information more proactively
- spot and avoid risks before they become problems
- use personal information confidently to build trust and improve relationships
On completion, you'll receive digital certificates for individuals and your organisation. You can also choose to be listed on the ICO's Data Protection Essentials public register.
Certificates are valid for one year. The ICO will invite you to refresh the training and self-assessment annually to keep your knowledge current.
How to sign up
The training and self-assessment are free and available online. You can sign up for Data Protection Essentials on the ICO website.
First published 12 August 2026