Our work was designed to support the CPS objective of Continuous Security Improvement through the integration of ISO27001 based best practice into the established security operating regime. One of the key requirements of this process is to ensure local ownership and accountability for security across many hundreds of sites dispersed right across England and Wales. The training of Information Management Advisors (IMAs) to enable them to undertake Information Security Risk Assessments and CPS Baseline Security Assessments in their own areas of responsibility was one of the most important steps in facilitating local ownership of security. Another key outcome of this process was the assurance that the CPS approach to Continuous Security Improvement was being applied consistently across the whole estate.

The training was provided by Neil Kell. Neil has worked closely with CPS for a number of years to help the organisation meet its Information Security and Assurance objectives. He has supported CPS through the design of a bespoke method for assessing security requirements which draws upon Information Security best practice and integrates with procedures already in place to meet the organisation’s objectives in terms of compliance with the Government Manual of Protective Security.

Neil was one of the first consultants in the country to achieve both CLAS and BS7799 Lead Auditor status. He is a PRINCE2 accredited practitioner and was also responsible for central government’s largest full ISO27001 certification exercise.

Neil said of his work with CPS: “It is a real pleasure to work with an organisation that has demonstrated such a commitment to meeting its Information Assurance objectives. In CPS we have been able to design an approach which does not follow slavishly a particular method or requirement, but instead has been designed to meet the unique business requirements of the organisation. Our approach acknowledges the reality of day-to-day life in a large government department and builds security into this through local ownership rather than imposition from the centre. The enthusiasm and commitment of the people involved both in the central security team and through the local based ISA community is a credit to the organisation.”

CarbonNeutral status represents the achievement of the point at which greenhouse gas emissions have been assessed, reduced where possible and the remaining non-reducible emissions offset through high quality renewable energy, energy-efficiency or forestry projects.

This status is backed up by a standard – The CarbonNeutral Protocol. All organisations who achieve the standard are required to undertake an independent audit process that assesses the application of the standard. This propriety process is designed to help organisations develop a rigorous approach to understanding and addressing emissions and climate change issues.

The CarbonNeutral Process

This year, following the planting at Northcombe Wood last year and as part of our commitment to the environment we have elected to offset our emissions through planting at Crossroads Wood in Derbyshire, near the late medieval Ashby de la Zouch Castle. This scheme will restore natural features and promote the conservation of wildlife and plant species.

About The Evolve Forest: Crossroads Wood

Historically a farming site, Crossroads Wood has lost a number of hedgerows and ponds over the years. Restoration of these wetland areas will encourage species such as snipe, bluebells, bats, native black poplar and ruddy darter dragonflies back onto the site. The dominant species to be planted will be oak/ash with some birch, field maple and other mixed native broadleaved trees and shrubs. Local and inner city schools will play an important role in developing this site by taking part in planting events. Books will also be issued to school children to further promote the work. Landscape improvements by The National Forest and public access will mean that visitors will be able to enjoy this newly developed site.

Directions To Crossroads Wood 

To reach Crossroads Wood, turn west off A444 at Crossroads junction with B5004 Crossroads, follow road for 4km, turn right towards Botany Bay at crossroads. Site on left. Parking on verge in 400m. GRID REFERENCE: SK260150

Evolve continues to provide advice and direct support to public sector clients who are concerned they may be exposed to inappropriate data handling risks, or have actually suffered information loss or compromise.

Unfortunately, recent high profile events have yet again demonstrated the ease with which security lapses can occur. Even what appears to be the most vigorously applied information security system can present unappraised, significant risk unless tested by practical analysis and challenge. Our most recent work includes an initial investigation in relation to an identified breach, and was followed by practical assistance to ensure a comprehensive approach that reduced risk going forward through the application of best practice.

Evolve is also in a position to provide full support to reach compliance with the most recent Cabinet Office data handling guidelines. We are happy to discuss specific issues in this area in complete confidence and without obligation.

Our most recent assignment in this area on behalf of Ofwat, the water regulator, generated a number of delivery options to satisfy the requirements of a new corporate strategy. Our work included the strategic design of Support Services and a comprehensive analysis of a wide variety of aspects and drivers – including the developing regulatory and statutory environment, cultural, financial, technical, estate and workforce planning based issues.

Other activities arise from reviews undertaken by external bodies such as NAO. Our recent work in this area includes organisational redesign supported by an HM Treasury compliant business case on behalf of the Government Offices of the English Regions (GO). Our work defined and ensured the efficient and effective performance of statutory responsibilities in alignment with a new emphasis on strategic delivery within the GO core business.

The interpersonal and specialist skills of our team and our background in the Public Sector means we can generate options that are optimally matched to the specific organisational requirements whilst being empathetic to the prevailing cultural and policy environment.

Always working closely with our clients, Evolve’s disciplined delivery methods and detailed analysis ensure alignment, compliance and efficiency at the strategic, tactical and operational levels.