Sharing your information
Any sharing of personal data is always made:
- on case-by-case basis
- using the minimum personal data necessary
- with the appropriate security controls in place
- in line with legislation
Information is only shared with those agencies and bodies who have a ‘need to know’ or where you have consented to the sharing of your personal data to such persons.
We may use the information we hold about you to assist in the detection and prevention of crime or fraud. We may also share this information with other bodies that inspect and manage public funds.
As part of the response to public health emergencies like the coronavirus, Category 1 and Category 2 responders such as East Sussex County Council have a duty to share information with other responder organisations under the Civil Contingencies Act (2004).
We will keep a record of everyone who has permission to see the information, and what information has been shared with them.
If you give us permission to, we may share information with partners such as the NHS and other local authorities to help to improve services provided to everyone. Where information is shared for purposes other than direct provision of services, no sensitive* information will be shared without further consent.
If you give us permission to, in the interests of your wellbeing, we may share some of your information with other partners and organisations (e.g. NHS, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Services, District and Borough Councils, voluntary organisations, UK power networks) to allow referral for additional or follow up services such as specialist advice, health checks, home fire safety checks or for the purpose of prioritising electricity restoration in the event of a power cut. No sensitive information about you will be shared with other organisations without further consent (see below).
Sensitive information includes the following:
- the processing of personal data revealing racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs or trade union membership
- the processing of genetic data, or of biometric data, for the purpose of uniquely identifying an individual
- the processing of data concerning health
- the processing of data concerning of individuals sex life or sexual orientation
Normally, you are the only person who can decide how your information can be shared. However, if you are not able to make those decisions, the professionals involved in your care may decide that sharing the information will be in your best interests. They must take into account the views of your family and carers.
You can choose someone to take decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. This is called a ‘Lasting Power of Attorney’.
Use of third party organisations
To enable us to provide the services you need, East Sussex County Council may share your information with trusted external organisations to process your data on our behalf. Some of the organisations we may share your information with include:
- nursing and residential homes
- day care services
- real time telephone monitoring for home care
- telecare sensors, such as lifeline fall pendant
- home care services
- disability living equipment providers
- NHS provider services
Any organisation commissioned by the Council will be under contractual obligation to comply with data protection legislation.