A Reminder Regarding Photos

In light of the new regulations since Christmas, this is a quick reminder that regardless of where or how you are working, the College procedures around taking photographs still apply.

It is tempting to want to take a quick screen shot of an online meeting or class but remember that images are personal data and proper protocol must still be followed due to GDPR and privacy implications.  If you take a picture of someone without their knowledge and proceed to use the picture e.g. marketing purposes, posting on SERC social media, the individual has grounds to object to this.

We are always excited to hear your ‘good news’ stories of students’ achievements but before taking a screen shot or photo, please tell students of your wish to do so and offer them the opportunity to switch their cameras off should they wish to opt out.  

Unfortunately, we will be unable to use photos unless the proper protocol has been followed.  For further details, please refer to the Communications and Marketing SOP. Please note, too, that if vulnerable adults (or any children) are included, we would need written consent for the picture/s to be used. This is also the case for any shots of solo individuals.

GDPR state that we must be able to show that they understand completely why the photo is being taken and what we plan to do with that photo, and that they can withdraw consent at any time. 

We appreciate that online learning can make it difficult to secure signatures, but if photos of children/vulnerable adults/solo shots are being taken online, the staff member could email the consent form for them and accept a return email as evidence of consent, should they provide it. Forms can be found on the Communications and Marketing team site: GDPR Photo Consent Forms

It should be noted that, in terms of PR, a screenshot of a class or meeting is unlikely to be used by the media.