General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a new EU directive that replaces the Data Protection Act and aims to harmonise data privacy laws across Europe. The introduction of GDPR will protect everyone’s personal data in a way that is transparent and measurable.
GDPR comes into force on 25 May 2018 and must be adhered to by all organisations – including SCMA and all individual childminding services themselves – that store and collect data to avoid financial penalties.
SCMA is working with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) to ensure information is available to support childminders through the introduction of GDPR.
So far, the ICO has advised SCMA that the regulations surrounding GDPR are being implemented differently in Scotland compared to England. We would advise childminders to be cautious and think carefully before accepting or adhering to information from England-based companies, organisations or any other sources.
The ICO is also working on producing an article on GDPR for childminding services, which will feature in the summer 2018 issue of
Childminding.
If you haven’t already done so, all childminders who store information about their minded children should be registered with the ICO. Previously only childminders who kept information on electronic devices had to register with the ICO; however due to the introduction of GDPR this spring, all childminders are advised to register to ensure compliance.
It will be the responsibility of each childminder to ensure their service is compliant with the new legislation and GDPR regulations.
The ICO has published a useful ‘Preparing for GDPR - 12 steps to take now’ resource, which SCMA members are able to access from the Documents section of the Membership Dashboard at childminding.org.
The ICO has also produced
Getting ready for the new UK data protection law which sets out eight practical steps for micro business owners and sole traders. This may also be useful for childminders.
Find out more about GDPR at
ico.org.uk.