Events Calendar

Webinar Synopsis: Understanding the 2025 SAPPP Practitioners Guide & Assertion 10 Compliance that includes, domain names, email, websites & IT policies

Presented by: Mark Tomkins, Founding Director at Aubergine – parish & town council website experts and parish councillor

Join Mark Tomkins, a leading expert in council website compliance and the Founding Director of Aubergine, as he explains the key updates in the 2025 edition of the Smaller Authorities Practitioners’ Guide (SAPPP) with a focus on Assertion 10 of the Annual Governance Statement.

This session is designed to help local councils understand their responsibilities regarding the governance and management of their digital presence — including domain names, official email use, website standards, and IT policies.

Key Topics Covered:

Overview of SAPPP 2025 updates Key changes and additions that impact digital governance.

• • Understanding the assertion around trust and how it now extends to councils' IT governance and data integrity.

Domain Name Ownership & Security

Why councils must own and control their .gov.uk or .org.uk domains & risks of third-party-managed domains.

Official Email Use for Councillors & Officers

The importance of using council-issued email addresses (not personal or generic ones).

Benefits for FOI/SAR, GDPR, and accountability.

Website Compliance Expectations

Accessibility, transparency, and the need for up-to-date, compliant council websites.

What to check and how to stay compliant.

IT & Data Policies for Councils

Minimum IT policies now expected under Assertion 10 & What to include and best practices.

Who Should Attend: Clerks, RFOs, councillors, and anyone involved in council governance, digital communications, or compliance.

Takeaway: Gain clarity on Assertion 10’s digital implications and learn practical steps to ensure your council meets its compliance obligations by AGAR 2025/26.