Able to safely collect, store and share information and data

Add to favourites

On this page you'll find links to resources to help you learn how to safely collect, store and share information and data.

Select your current capability level to jump to aligned resources:

When you open the links included on this page, you may be presented with messages about cookies. To find out more about what cookies are and how you can manage them safely, have a look at this guidance: Digital Unite - What is a Cookie?

Not at Level 1
Handling Information & Data icon which is a red hexagon with a computer and cogs inside

Able to safely collect, store and share information and data

Not at Level 1 - I need to learn why it's important that information and data are handled carefully and why I must be cautious when sharing. 

 

Watch this very short video which tells you what data is and covers key data-related terms that you might come across. This has been created for local council employees but applies to everyone: Local Government Association - What is Data?

In this e-learning module you can learn about the different types of information used within an organisation and why it's important to care for data. To access the module follow this link, click on the ‘register’ button and fill in the online form. You'll then receive an email link to the module: Scottish Government Digital Academy - Getting Started with Data

There may be circumstances, both personally and professionally, when you need to enter information or data online. This guidance covers the key features of online forms and what the different elements mean: Digital Unite - How to Complete Online Forms

For further resources, visit the Handling, Information and Data page of the Digital and Data Resource Hub. You might also want to consider joining the Knowledge, Information and Data (KIND) Learning Network. This is an inclusive and supportive community of practice with free training opportunities aimed at developing professional skills at all levels

Level 1
Handling Information & Data icon which is a red hexagon with a computer and cogs inside

Able to safely collect, store and share information and data

Level 1 - I know it is important that information and data are handled carefully and that I must be cautious when sharing. I always ensure information and data I am responsible for is complete, accurate, and up to date.

 

This online article will help you increase your confidence in handling information and data.  It introduces data protection principles and describes how to implement good practice in handling information. Although written specifically for care providers, this guidance is relevant for everyone working in health and social care: CPD Online College - Handling Information in Care Settings

Watch these videos to learn about the principles that underpin the UK's data protection laws on collecting, storing and sharing data. Understanding the principles will help you take the right steps to make sure you’re handling people’s data correctly: Information Commissioner's Office - Principles

This guidance will build your understanding of how to handle personal information transparently so that individuals can make informed choices about how to exercise their information rights: Information Commissioner's Office - Transparency in Health and Social Care

For further resources, visit the Handling, Information and Data page of the Digital and Data Resource Hub. You might also want to consider joining the Knowledge, Information and Data (KIND) Learning Network. This is an inclusive and supportive community of practice with free training opportunities aimed at developing professional skills at all levels

Level 2
Handling Information & Data icon which is a red hexagon with a computer and cogs inside

Able to safely collect, store and share information and data

Level 2 - I can collect and accurately record data that is relevant to my role in secure and efficient ways using the most appropriate systems or tools that are available to me. I always ensure information and data are stored safely and shared appropriately.

 

This collection of e-learning modules will help you understand ways to collect and interpret data. You will need to register for a free account to access the content: Accenture - Discovering Data

Read through these twelve key steps you can take to get some information security fundamentals in place: SWGFL - 12 Vital Information Security Steps

Watch this video to learn about the measures that need to be in place when handling special category data (e.g. race, ethnic origin, religious beliefs): Information Commissioner's Office - Data Protection 4: Processing Special Category Data

For further resources, visit the Handling, Information and Data page of the Digital and Data Resource Hub. You might also want to consider joining the Knowledge, Information and Data (KIND) Learning Network. This is an inclusive and supportive community of practice with free training opportunities aimed at developing professional skills at all levels. 

Level 3
Handling Information & Data icon which is a red hexagon with a computer and cogs inside

Able to safely collect, store and share information and data

Level 3 - I understand the value of data and the importance of data integrity.  I can provide leadership and guidance on the effective collection and storage of data using a range of different technologies. I also have good knowledge of measures that can be taken when sharing data to reduce the risks associated with data breaches and cyber security.

 

Follow this UK Government online guidance on how to ensure your data is accessible, reusable, and maintained independently of any specific technology: GOV.UK - Manage Your Data for Access and Reuse

This detailed guide has been developed to help organisations ensure personal data is shared safely and in compliance with data protection legislation: Information Commissioner's Office - Data Sharing: A Code of Practice

To understand the strategic vision and help you provide leadership and guidance on the use of data, have a look a this strategy document: Scottish Government and COSLA - Health and Social Care Data Strategy

For further resources, visit the Handling, Information and Data page of the Digital and Data Resource Hub. You might also want to consider joining the Knowledge, Information and Data (KIND) Learning Network. This is an inclusive and supportive community of practice with free training opportunities aimed at developing professional skills at all levels.