Data Subject Access Request (DSAR) Policy

Whatever the age of the child, data about them is still their personal data and does not belong to anyone else such as a parent or guardian. It is the child who has a right of access to the information held about them and the Council will assess if the child is able to understand (in broad terms) what it means to make a DSAR, how to interpret the information they receive as a result of doing this, and the potential impact on them from having access to the records.

When responding to requests made by or on behalf of children the following is taken into consideration:

• where possible, the child's level of maturity and their ability to make a DSAR, the complexities involved in that decision and the possible consequences of their decision
• the nature of the personal data
• any court orders relating to parental access or responsibility that may apply
• any duty of confidence owed to the child or young person
• any consequences of allowing those with parental responsibility access to the child's or young person's information. This is particularly important if there have been allegations of abuse or ill treatment
• any detriment to the child or young person if individuals with parental responsibility cannot access this information
• any views the child or young person has on whether their parents should have access to information about them

When it is determined that a child or young person's views should be sought regarding a request made on their behalf, we will notify you of our intention to do so and our subsequent decision in writing.

A child, or someone acting on their behalf, may make a DSAR in respect of personal data held by a school, about the child. Such DSARs will be dealt with by the school involved in line with their own policy and procedure. If you would like to access a child's school record, please contact the school directly.