Project background and aims

The timely, detailed and secure sharing of data and information about individuals and families, helps agencies such as councils, the health service and the voluntary sector to deliver joined-up, relevant services, and avoids the need for individuals and families to provide the same data and information several times over. Yet many agencies encounter barriers to effective data and information sharing. These barriers are largely focused on organisational culture obstacles, issues of responsibility and understanding. In response, Greater Manchester (GM) agencies are prioritising work focused on the unblocking of data and information sharing barriers.

New Economy, on behalf of GM, Leicestershire County Council and Bradford Metropolitan District Council, and funded by DfE is currently leading on a 12-month project which aims to help partnerships of agencies to share data and information, leading to reduced costs for the public sector and improved outcomes for residents.

The work involves the development of a range of tools, guidance and advice covering:

• Information Governance Framework, giving step-by-step guidance on how partnerships should develop and sign-off a data sharing protocol;
• advice on how to access the information and data needed to identify families with complex needs;
• a blueprint for ensuring that appropriate data and information is shared when an agency is contacted; and
• buy-in from relevant parties.

The tools and guidance we are developing will be trialled with pilot projects to ensure that they are practically orientated, and supported by case studies, a training/skills package and a partner support programme. They will guide officers needing to share data and information, ensuring that they share data and information appropriately, in a manner compliant with legislation and the expectations of the public.

Want to know more?

For more information on our work, and to be kept informed of progress, please contact:

John Curtis
john.curtis@neweconomymanchester.com

Anne Hopwood
anne.hopwood@neweconomymanchester.com