When an allegation is made against someone—especially one handled by a Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)—it is natural to feel anxious about who has been told and whether sensitive information has been handled properly. Many people worry that details have been shared too widely or with individuals who have no role in the safeguarding process. Understanding the rules around confidentiality and data protection can help bring clarity and guide your next steps.
This guidance explains, in plain English, how information should be handled, when disclosure is lawful, and what you can do if you believe the disclosure was inappropriate.
Understanding the issue or context
Facing an allegation is extremely stressful. That stress increases when you believe information has been shared with “random people” or individuals who have no professional involvement in safeguarding. These situations often raise questions about confidentiality, fairness, and whether your personal data has been mishandled.
LADOs play an important role in coordinating responses to allegations involving people who work with children. However, they are also required to follow strict rules about information-sharing. Understanding those rules helps you assess whether there are grounds for a complaint.
The legal rules or framework
LADO responsibilities
A LADO oversees allegations against individuals working or volunteering with children. Their statutory duties include:
- coordinating information between agencies,
- ensuring concerns are handled promptly,
- advising on next steps.
They must share information with certain professionals where it is necessary for safeguarding.
Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR
Personal data must be:
- processed lawfully,
- shared only when necessary,
- limited to those who need to know,
- kept secure and confidential.
Sharing information beyond the required safeguarding group may breach these duties.
When disclosure is allowed
LADOs may legitimately share information with:
- social services,
- the police,
- your employer or organisation,
- regulatory bodies,
- safeguarding leads.
Disclosure must be necessary for safeguarding or for managing the allegation.
When disclosure may be unlawful
Sharing details with:
- individuals who have no safeguarding role,
- colleagues not involved in the investigation,
- members of the public,
- friends or acquaintances,
would normally breach data protection laws unless there is a compelling safeguarding justification (rare).
Right to make a complaint
If you believe your information has been mishandled, you can:
- complain to the local authority,
- escalate to the Data Protection Officer (DPO),
- take the matter to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO),
- seek legal advice about possible breaches.
Practical steps to take (step-by-step guidance)
1. Make a written record of what was shared and with whom
Include dates, names, and how you learned of the disclosure.
2. Ask the local authority to confirm who was informed
Request:
- the list of recipients,
- the reasons for disclosure,
- the lawful basis used under UK GDPR.
They are required to answer.
3. Submit a formal complaint if necessary
Your complaint should explain:
- what information you believe was improperly shared,
- why you think it was unnecessary,
- any impact this has had on you.
Ask for a full investigation.
4. Contact the local authority’s Data Protection Officer
The DPO must assess whether the disclosure was lawful and proportionate.
5. Consider escalating to the ICO
If the local authority’s response is unsatisfactory, the ICO can investigate breaches of data protection law.
6. Seek legal advice if the disclosure caused harm
A solicitor can explain:
- whether data protection rights were breached,
- whether defamation or misuse of private information is relevant,
- what remedies may be available.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Assuming all information-sharing is unlawful. Many disclosures are permitted for safeguarding purposes.
- Delaying a complaint. Timely action can help ensure records are preserved.
- Confronting individuals directly. Always follow formal processes.
- Not keeping written evidence. Documentation strengthens your position.
Avoiding these issues helps you approach the situation clearly and confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the LADO share allegations with people not involved in my case?
No. Information should only be shared on a strict “need to know” basis.
Is sharing my information a breach of data protection?
It may be, depending on why and with whom it was shared. Unnecessary disclosure could breach the Data Protection Act and UK GDPR.
Can I request evidence of their justification for sharing?
Yes. You can ask what lawful basis they relied on.
Can this be grounds for a formal complaint?
Yes. Unlawful or excessive disclosure is a valid complaint.
Should I ask for my data to be restricted?
In some cases, you can request restriction of processing, though safeguarding needs may limit this.
Can I take legal action if harm was caused by disclosure?
Possibly. A solicitor can assess whether compensation or legal remedies are available.
Conclusion
If you’d like to understand your rights and options in plain English, visit LegalGuidance.org — a free resource powered by Martin Taggart Legal Consulting.
For professional, fixed-fee advice from a UK solicitor, visit MartinTaggart.com.
This information is general guidance only and not legal advice. For personalised support, please contact Martin Taggart Legal Consulting.