Only five per cent of charities are ready for the new General Data Protection Rules, according to a new survey.

New research from software and services company, Advanced, revealed only five per cent of UK charities are “truly ready” for the roll out.

The survey, which collected data from over 300 companies, found more than three-quarters (76%) of charities admit there is still work to be done before they achieved full compliance.

Furthermore, more than half (56%) of respondents identified consent as the top priority for their GDPR planning, with uncertainty about interpretation of GDPR representing the biggest obstacle to progress (48%).

Commenting on the findings, Advanced managing director, Mark Dewell said it’s “clear there’s still a big appetite for information and advice” about GDPR, especially as it just one month until the legislation comes into force.

“This is both worrying yet unsurprising, given we know that only five per cent feel ready for the regulatory roll out, despite the threat of significant fines for failure to comply,” he said.

Over 300 third sector organisations attended a webinar hosted by Advanced, suggesting a clear focus and keenness amongst charities to implement the steps required to meet GDPR compliance in time for the deadline.

The survey was taken place during the webinar, revealing more than three-quarters (76 per cent) admit there is still work to be done before they achieve full compliance.

“It’s obvious that GDPR remains at the top of the charity sector agenda and although progress has been made, there is still a way to go before many are GDPR ready,” Dewell added.

“Uncertainty around consent and data retention seem to be presenting the biggest worries for the third sector, with many concerned that their potential fundraising totals will be affected.”

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