You may need to share information with local safeguarding partners that are different across the UK, such as the local authority, health and social care organisations, and the police. This is likely to be via multi-agency arrangements (such as a Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (Marac) or a Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH)).

For sharing that happens on a regular basis, you should put formal data sharing arrangements in place. For help with this, see the section on policies and systems for information sharing in the 10 step guide. 

However, in an emergency don’t hesitate, even in the absence of a formal arrangement. Please share any information necessary to protect a child or young person. As soon as you can, document your decision, what you shared, and with whom.

Training

Training is essential, as set out in the 10 step guide. To maintain confidence and competence in making lawful and proportionate decisions, you should give all your staff regular refresher training that covers both safeguarding procedures and risks, and data protection requirements. 

Cross-border data sharing within the UK and internationally

In some safeguarding cases, you may need to share personal information across borders. For example, when a child moves from one part of the UK to another (eg from Scotland to England) or relocates abroad.

Within the UK, data protection law applies consistently. But local safeguarding frameworks and points of contact may differ, so ensure you’re aware of the relevant guidance for the destination.

If safeguarding requires you to share information outside the UK (eg with authorities or education providers overseas), you must also comply with the rules on international data transfers. Our guidance on international transfers explains the requirements and safeguards available to you.