Children's Privacy Notice

Hello

When you use one of our services, we need to collect some information about you so we can help look after your health.

This notice explains:

  • what information we collect
  • why we need it
  • who we share it with
  • how we keep it safe
  • who you can talk to if you have questions

We have written this notice to be easy to read and understand.

Who are we?

We are North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust.

We provide healthcare services to children, young people and adults.

We look after information about your health and make sure it is kept safe.

What information do we collect?

We may collect information such as:

  • your name
  • your date of birth
  • your address
  • your NHS number
  • the name of your parent or carer
  • information about your health
  • information about appointments and treatment
  • information from your doctor, GP or other healthcare professionals

Why do we need this information?

We use your information to:

  • know who you are
  • give you healthcare and treatment
  • arrange appointments
  • contact your parent or carer if we need to
  • keep a record of the care you receive
  • help healthcare staff look after you safely

Without this information, it would be difficult for us to give you the right care.

Who can see my information?

Only people who need your information to help care for you should be able to see it.

This might include:

  • doctors
  • nurses
  • therapists
  • other healthcare professionals
  • staff who help arrange appointments

Everyone working for the NHS must keep your information private.

How do we share information to help look after you?

Sometimes different healthcare professionals need to work together to help you.

For example, your GP, hospital doctor and therapist may need important information about your health.

Sharing information can help to:

  • make sure everyone knows about any allergies you may have
  • make sure staff know about medicines you take
  • make sure you get the right treatment
  • make sure you do not have to repeat the same information lots of times

We only share information when we need to.

How do we protect your information?

Your information is private and it is our job to keep it safe.

We protect your information by using:

  • secure NHS computer systems
  • passwords and security checks
  • NHS smartcards for staff
  • secure email systems
  • staff training on keeping information safe
  • regular checks to make sure information is being used properly

Only authorised people can access your information.

When someone looks at an electronic health record, the computer system keeps a record of who accessed it and when.

What if we are worried about your safety?

Sometimes we may need to share information without asking first.

For example:

  • to help keep you safe
  • to protect another person from harm
  • when the law says we must share information

We will only share information when it is necessary.

What is the NHS Federated Data Platform?

The NHS uses some national computer systems to help plan and improve healthcare services.

One of these systems is called the NHS Federated Data Platform (FDP).

It helps NHS staff use information safely to improve services and support patient care.

Your information is still protected by NHS security rules and UK data protection law.

What is the Secure Data Environment?

Sometimes the NHS uses information to help improve healthcare services and support approved research.

The Secure Data Environment (SDE) is a highly secure system that allows approved NHS staff and researchers to do this safely.

It has strong security controls and only authorised people can use it.

The aim is to improve healthcare while protecting people's privacy.

How long do we keep information?

We keep information only for as long as we need it.

The NHS has rules about how long health records must be kept.

Sometimes records need to be kept for longer because of legal cases, public inquiries or national investigations.

When information is no longer needed, it is securely destroyed.

Can I see my information?

Yes.

If you would like to know what information we hold about you, you can ask a parent, carer or trusted adult to help you.

You can also speak to a healthcare professional involved in your care.

What are my rights?

You have rights over your information.

You can:

  • ask questions about how your information is used
  • ask if information is correct
  • tell someone if you are worried about your information

Your parent or carer may help you with these rights.

What if I have a question?

You can speak to:

  • your doctor
  • your nurse
  • another healthcare professional who is helping you

Or your parent or carer can contact:

Data protection officer

Email: ncm.dataprotection@nhs.net

What if I am unhappy?

If you are worried about how your information has been used, please tell your parent, carer or a healthcare professional.

Your parent or carer can also contact our data protection officer for help.

Remember

Your health information is important.

We use it to help look after you, keep you safe and make sure you receive the best possible care.

We work hard to make sure it stays private and secure.

Contact details

North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust
Executive Offices
Kendrick Wing
Warrington Hospital
Lovely Lane
Warrington
WA5 1QG

Data protection officer

Email: ncm.dataprotection@nhs.net 

Last updated: Friday 18 September 2026