Care providers have a vital role in keeping people’s information safe and care services running smoothly. This pack gives you the key steps, practical tools, and free support available to help you protect your service and respond confidently to digital and cyber risks.
Why This Matters Now
Cyber threats are on the rise, and the care sector is not immune. The M&S cyber attack is a stark reminder of how digital risks can impact everyday services.
For care providers, staying secure isn’t just about ticking a box – it’s about protecting your staff, your residents, and your business.
Good news:
76% of care providers have already completed the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT). If you’re one of them, here’s what to do next.
If you haven’t yet, now is the perfect time to get started, and free help is available.
What you can do
Complete the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT)
If you’re one of the 76% of providers who’ve already completed the DSPT, great! You’re on the right track.
If not, this is your first step to demonstrating good data protection practice and compliance with the Care Quality Commission’s expectations.
Check how safe you really are
Even if you’ve completed the DSPT, it’s important to check your systems are still secure. That’s where the Business Continuity Audit Tool comes in. It helps you test how resilient your service really is in the face of disruption.
Free resources you can use now
There are simple, practical steps you can take to protect your service from digital and cyber risks and a range of free tools to help you do it. From knowing what to do after a cyber attack to managing the risks of staff using their own devices, these resources are here to support you.
- Respond and Recover Guide
What to do if you’re hit by a cyber attack,and how to recover.
- Recorded webinars
Explore topics like secure email, password protection, and remote working. - Cyber security training
Free e-learning and courses for care staff at all levels and data protection leads. - Free template policies
Downloadable templates to help you put clear, practical cyber and data protection policies in place.
Worried about a potential cyber threat?
We have free local support around the country.
Your Local Support Organisation (LSO) is here to help with personalised advice and guidance, all fully funded.
Ask them about:
- 1:1 support to improve your DSPT
- A digital health check of your systems
- Risk assessments and action plans
Find your Local Support Organisation here.
We also have a national helpline: [email protected]
