If the words “GDPR update” make you want to immediately switch off and find something more interesting to read, you’re not alone.
Data protection legislation is hardly the most exciting topic for business owners. However, the latest changes to UK GDPR are worth understanding because they could affect how your business handles customer data, website visitors and complaints.
The good news? Most businesses in Kent won’t need to completely overhaul their processes. In fact, many of the changes are designed to make compliance simpler and more practical for smaller organisations.
As accountants in Kent working with businesses across a wide range of industries, we’ve broken down the key changes in plain English.
Has GDPR Been Replaced?
No.
Despite some headlines suggesting major reform, GDPR has not disappeared. The Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 updates certain areas of UK GDPR but leaves the core principles intact.
Businesses still need to:
- Protect personal information
- Keep customer data secure
- Be transparent about how information is used
- Respect individuals’ data rights
Think of it as an update to the rulebook rather than a completely new game.
When Do The Changes Come Into Force?
This is one of the most important questions for business owners.
The Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 received Royal Assent on 19 June 2025, but the changes are being introduced in stages.
Most of the practical changes affecting small businesses came into force on 5 February 2026. This includes updates relating to Subject Access Requests, legitimate interests and certain cookie requirements.
One significant change is still to come. The new requirement for businesses to have a formal process for handling data protection complaints is expected to come into force on 19 June 2026.
For most businesses in Kent, now is the ideal time to review existing procedures and make any necessary updates before the remaining requirements take effect.
Subject Access Requests Should Be Easier to Manage
A Subject Access Request allows someone to ask what personal information you hold about them.
For many small businesses, these requests can be time consuming and disruptive.
Under the updated rules, organisations have greater flexibility when additional information is needed from the individual making the request. The law also confirms that businesses only need to conduct reasonable and proportionate searches for information.
This should provide more certainty for business owners and reduce unnecessary administrative work.
New Rules for Data Protection Complaints
This is one of the changes that many small businesses may need to prepare for.
Under the new framework, organisations will need a clear process for dealing with complaints relating to personal data.
Customers must be able to raise concerns about how their information is being handled and businesses will be expected to respond appropriately.
For most organisations, this does not require a dedicated compliance department. A documented process and basic staff awareness will often be sufficient.
Cookie Rules Are Becoming More Practical
Let’s be honest. Nobody enjoys cookie banners.
The updated legislation allows certain low risk cookies to be used without obtaining consent in specific circumstances.
This should simplify some aspects of website management, particularly for businesses using analytics and essential website functionality.
That said, website owners should still review their privacy notices and cookie policies to ensure they remain compliant.
Greater Flexibility Around Legitimate Interests
The changes introduce a number of recognised legitimate interests that make it easier for organisations to process data in specific situations.
These include areas such as crime prevention, safeguarding and emergency response.
While this may not directly affect every small business, it forms part of a wider effort to reduce unnecessary compliance burdens while maintaining strong protections for individuals.
What Should Businesses in Kent Do Next?
Fortunately, most businesses do not need to panic.
Instead, focus on a few practical actions:
- Review your privacy policy
- Check your website cookie notices
- Ensure staff understand how to handle personal data
- Create or update a process for dealing with data complaints
- Review procedures for handling Subject Access Requests
Businesses that already take GDPR seriously are unlikely to face major challenges.
Final Thoughts
The latest GDPR changes are less dramatic than many headlines suggest.
For most small businesses in Kent, the changes are about making existing rules more practical rather than creating additional bureaucracy.
The majority of the reforms are already in force, with the remaining complaint handling requirements expected to arrive in June 2026. Taking some time now to review your procedures can help ensure your business remains compliant and prepared.
As accountants in Kent, we work with businesses every day that are focused on growth, profitability and keeping up with regulatory changes. If you’re unsure whether these GDPR updates affect your business, seeking professional advice now could save considerable time and stress later.
