DPC guidance aims to protect vulnerable adults
The data-protection watchdog has launched guidance aimed at helping to protect the personal data of vulnerable adults.
The Data Protection Commission (DPC) says that its is designed for organisations and individuals.
The initiative aims to ensure compliance with data-protection legislation and promote best practices in safeguarding sensitive information.
Practical advice
The toolkit offers guidance on how to collect, use, store, and share data related to vulnerable adults, while adhering to the principles of the GDPR and the .
The DPC says that it includes practical advice, templates, and examples to help organisations implement effective data-protection measures.
Vulnerable adults are people who, due to their physical or mental condition or other personal characteristics or life circumstances, need support to protect themselves from harm at a particular time.
‘Unique challenges’
Commissioners for data protection Des Hogan and Dale Sunderland said that vulnerable adults could face unique challenges in protecting their personal data.
“Organisations now have the necessary tools and knowledge to safeguard this information and ensure the rights of vulnerable individuals are respected at all times," they added.
Deputy commissioner David Murphy said that the DPC had developed the document through close collaboration with organisations involved in the safeguarding sector – including the HSE, Sage Advocacy and Safeguarding Ireland.
He said that the toolkit would help staff in health and social-care settings to make “confident decisions” on data protection, based on an informed assessment of risk, and guided by their own professional expertise and knowledge.