Who will access ContactPoint?
Access to ContactPoint will be restricted to authorised users who need it as part of their work. This will include those working in education, health, social care, youth justice and some voluntary organisations.
All users will be required to have enhanced Criminal Records Bureau disclosures. Users will be trained in the safe and secure use of the system and compliance with the Data Protection Act and Human Rights Act.
Authorised users will be able to access ContactPoint through a secure web link, through some existing case management systems or through another authorised user. It will not be possible for any user to access any case management systems or case data held by another agency through ContactPoint.
How will you ensure it will be secure?
The security of ContactPoint is of paramount importance. The design and implementation is being reviewed by independent security experts throughout its development. To access ContactPoint, users will need a username, a pin code, a personal security token and a password. Every access will be detailed in the audit trail, which will be reviewed regularly.
How will records that are particularly sensitive be kept confidential?
Records of children whose circumstances mean that they may be at increased risk if information is accessed may be subject to restrictions. These decisions will be taken on a case by case basis and will be based on the level of threat posed if their information were widely available.
How will ContactPoint be kept up to date?
The aim is that the system will not impose burdens of frontline staff and that it should fit into their day to day work. Wherever possible, ContactPoint will be updated directly from systems that are already in day to day use so that information only needs to be added once.
What is the legislative basis?
The Regulations, which came into force on 1st August 2007, provide the legal framework for ContactPoint under section 12 of the Children Act 2004.
The Government's response to the public consultation on the draft ContactPoint guidance was published at the end of November 2007.
When will ContactPoint be available in Trafford?
The Implementation team are working alongside the national implementation team based in the DCSF and local partners within Trafford to prepare for implementation of ContactPoint. It is anticipated the system will be available to the first users in Trafford towards the end of 2008 with additional practitioners being introduced to the system during the following 12 months.
How can I find out more?
Contact Cathy Atherton, ContactPoint Implementation Manager, Commissioning Performance and Strategy Service e-mail contactpointpoint@trafford.gov.uk or cathy.atherton@trafford.gov.uk 0161 912 5156
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