Institutions who share data might be interested in the ICO's latest publication. They have published a statutory code of practice on data sharing by public sector bodies, businesses and other organisations. The code explains how the Data Protection Act 1998 applies to the sharing of personal data and offers good practical guidance that is helpful to all organisations. Furthermore, it gives straightforward examples on the types of sharing activities covered by the code.
The Information Commissioner, Christopher Graham, stated that "sharing data can play an important role in providing an efficient service to consumers in both the public and private sector". What’s more, he urged all private and public sector organisations that share information "to get to grips with the code without delay so they can be sure that they are getting it right". Any data controller who is involved in the sharing of personal data is subject to the code, including FE and HE institutions.
The code is available from the ICO website.