Is ContactPoint safe?
Security
The security of ContactPoint is of paramount importance. The design and implementation is being reviewed by independent security experts throughout its development.
To access ContactPoint, users will need a minimum of a personal security token and a password. Every access will be detailed in the audit trail, which will be reviewed regularly. It will be possible to shield records.
Consent
Explicit consent will be required to record contact details for sensitive services (defined as sexual/mental health and substance abuse). Access to this information will be restricted.
Consent will also be required for care leavers or those with learning difficulties to remain on ContactPoint up to age 25, to facilitate the transition to adult services.
Information
ContactPoint will not contain any case information (such as case notes, assessments and medical data or exam results).
Access
Access to ContactPoint will be restricted to authorised users who need it as part of their work. This will include those working in education, health, social care, youth offending and some voluntary organisations.
All users will have enhanced Criminal Records Bureau clearance. Users will be trained in the safe and secure use of the system, information sharing practice, and compliance with the Data Protection Act and Human Rights Act.
Authorised users will be able to access ContactPoint in three ways - through:
- a secure web link
- via the LA Case Management Systems. The DCSF are working closely with the suppliers and nominated LA’s to ensure this is.
- another authorised user or mediated access, where appropriate IT is unavailable.
Wherever possible ContactPoint will be automatically updated from existing systems, avoiding the need for practitioners to enter information on a separate system.
It will not be possible for an authorised user to access case management systems or to see case data held by another agency on ContactPoint.