Data Security Protection Toolkit (DSPT)

The Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT) is the officially-recognised self-assessment tool on data protection and cyber security for adult social care providers in England. 

By answering a series of questions, care providers can demonstrate that they are compliant with data protection legislation, the health and social care data security standards, and good practice. 

The DSPT for social care is specifically designed for adult care providers. Central and local government bodies, local authority and CCG commissioners, the Care Quality Commission and the National Data Guardian recognise it as the official tool to evaluate your compliance with legal requirements, data security standards and good practice. 

All adult social care services in England, including residential and nursing homes, supported living, homecare, extra care, shared lives and day services, are strongly recommended to complete the DSPT. It’s increasingly what local authorities, CCGs and the Care Quality Commission will expect to see

DSPT has been designed to protect all your data through the use of a user friendly online assessment. Across Central Bedfordshire, Bedford, Luton and Milton Keynes providers are able to access support with their DSPT. 

It is a compulsory requirement to successfully complete the DSPT every year if you have an NHS Mail Account, you have access to any NHS digital records or you contract with the NHS. It is also highly recommended by local authorities.

A new user friendly version of the DSPT created by care providers, for care providers was released on the 1st December 2020.

It is really important that we have good data security in our organisations. This is because it is vital that people trust us to share and use their information safely and appropriately. This is true whether the information is stored and shared on paper or digitally.

Some of you are already familiar with the DSPT, but all Care Providers need to take action as failure to properly protect personal data of your customers may result in a significant fine. The Bedfordshire Care Group and Central Bedfordshire Council is part of a FREE national programme to assist all CQC registered care providers with this.