Guidance

Data protection and sharing guidance for emergency planners and responders

To be used in conjunction with the non-statutory Emergency Response and Recovery and statutory Emergency Preparedness guidance.

Documents

Data Protection and Sharing – Guidance for Emergency Planners and Responders

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Data Protection and Sharing in Emergencies - 2 page summary for Category 1 and 2 Responders

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Details

The guidance should be used in conjunction with the non-statutory Emergency Response and Recovery and statutory Emergency Preparedness guidance.

This guidance is designed to inform Category 1 and 2 responders and other responders (such as those in the voluntary sector) on the key issues relating to data protection and sharing in emergency planning, response and recovery.

In the light of the 7 July 2005 attacks it was clear that emergency planners and responders required additional guidance specifically on data protection and sharing in an emergency. This publication does not introduce any new policy or legal requirements. It rather seeks to provide clear and understandable guidance on the legislative framework surrounding personal data so that emergency responders know what they can and cannot do when handling personal data. By exploding some of the myths that have built up around data protection, we will be better placed to prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies.

Published 11 January 2007