What do we do with your data?

If you get care and support from our Adult Social Care service, we will be collecting basic information about you, such as your name, address and next of kin. We will also collect your medical information and other relevant details from your family or carers to help us support you.

We will use your data to assess your needs and work out what services we need to arrange for you. It won't be used for any other purpose.
 

Who will see your data

To make sure that we all work together for your benefit, we may need to share information about you with other organisations.

Your data may be seen by:

• health services, including your GP and other council services
• police or fire services, if there is a risk to your wellbeing that would make contact with them appropriate
• charities and caring organisations that might provide services to help you

We will only share what others need to know so that they can provide you with appropriate services to meet your assessed needs.

We will not usually share your information with family members or friends unless you have given us permission. However, if your wellbeing is at risk we may have to do so to keep you safe. In addition, West Berkshire is legally required to share client level data with NHS Digital to help understand (at a national level) current and future population needs. This data also helps to inform future health and social care service development.

Your data will be held on electronic databases and networked storage with restricted access designed for social care. It will be protected from unauthorised access using up-to-date technical and organisational security measures.

If you want further details about how we collect, use, store and share your personal data, see our 'privacy notice' at the bottom of this page. You can also request a copy of the privacy notice from your social care contact.

NHS health records (Connected Care)

In Berkshire, the NHS provide us with your health records via a system called Connected Care. This system allows instant, secure access to your health and social care records for the professionals involved in your care. Sharing your electronic records with the people who look after you gives them the most up-to-date information about you. This makes your care safer and more efficient.

If you do not want your information shared through Connected Care you need to contact your GP to opt out.

Data protection and security toolkit

West Berkshire Council is required to complete the NHS Digital Data Security and Protection Toolkit. This is a tool that provides assurance that we are meeting standards on handling patient/client information.