Sharing information to safeguard children and young people in the education sector in the UK
This guidance supports UK education-sector staff and organisations working with under-18s to confidently share personal information for safeguarding purposes. It explains how data protection law applies to safeguarding, and should be used alongside the 10 step guide to sharing information to safeguard children. It is not a guide to safeguarding practice itself.
The guidance applies across the education sector, including schools, colleges, universities with under-18s, nurseries, and out-of-school settings. Similar guidance for other sectors (such as health and local authorities) is planned.
Key messages are that data protection law is not a barrier to safeguarding; it provides a framework for sharing information appropriately. In emergencies, information should be shared without delay, and practitioners should not let concerns about data protection prevent action to protect children. The guidance encourages use of lawful bases for sharing, following organisational procedures and training, and seeking advice from safeguarding leads, DPOs or managers when unsure. Practical examples and links to nation-specific guidance for England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales are included.
