DfE Opened Consultation on Statutory Guidance for the New Information Sharing Duty (United Kingdom, June 2026)
The Department for Education opened a consultation on draft statutory guidance for the information sharing duty introduced by the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026.
The Department for Education opened a consultation on draft statutory guidance for the information sharing duty introduced by the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026.
What Changed?
Draft guidance was issued to explain the new duty, identify who it applies to, and support consistent information sharing for safeguarding and child welfare.
Old System vs New System
Safeguarding information sharing relied on existing non-statutory and statutory guidance without this specific new duty under the 2026 Act.
From September 2026, relevant organisations and practitioners are expected to apply the new statutory information sharing duty, supported by a data sharing agreement template and updated guidance.
Who Is Affected?
Student Impact
Students at risk of harm may benefit from earlier identification and more coordinated support between education and safeguarding agencies.
Parent / Family Impact
Families may see more structured information sharing where child welfare concerns involve schools or partner agencies.
School / Institution Impact
Schools and colleges will need to understand the new duty, update safeguarding processes and align data-sharing practice with the final statutory guidance.
Teacher / Staff Impact
Designated safeguarding leads and staff may require training on when information must be shared and how to document decisions.
Key Dates
- Consultation opened: 2026-06-02
- consultation closes: 2026-07-14
- duty expected to apply from September 2026.
What To Do
- Safeguarding leads should review the draft guidance
- assess current information-sharing procedures and prepare consultation feedback before 14 July 2026.
What To Watch Next
Watch for the final statutory guidance and implementation materials before the duty begins in September 2026.
Global Context
The proposal reflects a wider international trend toward stronger multi-agency safeguarding duties and clearer legal bases for sharing child-protection information.
Source Record
Source type: Consultation
Source name: Department for Education