Free, expert support for new care services on data protection and cyber security including training, template policies and a checklist of issues to consider.
As a new care provider, you’re going to store and share a lot of sensitive and valuable information about your clients, staff and business. That could include paper or digital health and care records, staff records, bank details and contracts.
From 9 February 2026, the Care Quality Commission will reject applications to register as a care service if you do not include key policies including consent and data governance.
This puts renewed focus on getting policies, systems and governance arrangements in place before applying — particularly where data, consent and information governance are concerned.
This guide can help you to plan how you will manage your information. It includes a free checklist of issues a new care service should consider, and it signposts you to our free resources and template.
You can also access free support from our Better Security, Better Care team. We can help you to complete the Data Security Protection Toolkit (DSPT) – the free self-assessment tool covering all the data protection and cyber security issues you need to consider. It’s the official government-funded tool for social care and is recognised by NHS and local authority commissioners and the Care Quality Commission.
Contact us for free support.
Email [email protected]
Tel 0808 196 4848
Rose’s story: Inspired Lives Care
Find out how a new homecare service checked their data protection arrangements with support from a Better Security, Better Care local support organisation.
