1. Multi-Agency Information Sharing Guidance

2. Key Points
The guidance should be read in conjunction with the B&NES LSCB Sharing Protocol and agency and organisation-specific policies and procedures.
The guidance is to support the decision making process and to provide additional advice in this area.

3. Sharing information is an intrinsic part of any frontline practitioners’ job when working with children and young people.
The safety and wellbeing of people are the primary considerations when making information sharing decisions.
Seven Golden Rules (page 4)
Fears about sharing information cannot be allowed to stand in the way of the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of children at risk of abuse or neglect. No practitioner should assume that someone else will pass on information which may be critical to keeping a child safe.

4. Principles Necessary and proportionate Relevant Adequate Accurate
Timely
Secure
Record

5. When to share information?
Is there a clear and legitimate purpose for sharing information?
Yes – see next question
No – do not share
Does the information enable an individual to be identified?
No – you can share but should consider how
Is the information confidential?

6. Do you have consent?
Yes – you can share but should consider how
No – see next question
Is there another reason to share information such as to fulfil a public function/public interest or to protect the vital interests of the information subject?
No – do not share

7. How to Share?
Identify how much information to share
Distinguish fact from opinion
Ensure right information to the right individual
Ensure where possible that you are sharing the information securely
Inform the individual that the information has been shared if they were not aware of this, as long as this would not create or increase risk of harm
All information sharing decisions and reasons must be recorded in line with your organisation or local procedures. If you are unsure about how or when to share information, you should seek advice and ensure that the outcome of the discussion is recorded. If there are concerns that a child is suffering or likely to suffer harm, then follow the relevant procedures without delay.  

8. Useful info in Guidance
Flowchart (page 10)
Myth Busting Guide (page 11)
FAQs (page 13)
Confidentiality and Consent guidance (Appendix 1)
Case Studies – 21 covering variety of situations to aid learning/training/decision making