I know many on the list are from local authorities –
hence the email.
It’s about a council worker who has been suspended
after disclosure of personal data about the vulnerable from social work files.
Happy New Year
Chris
A County Hall employee has been suspended from duty after
being arrested as part of a police investigation into allegations that she
leaked sensitive information about vulnerable people.
The female member of staff was interviewed by officers from a Norfolk police
unit which specialises in the protection of vulnerable children and adults
following her arrest on December 23.
A police spokesman confirmed the woman has now been released on bail pending further
inquiries. The 51-year-old is suspected of offences under the data protection
act.
Last night a Norfolk County Council spokesman refused to confirm the nature of
the information involved. The EDP understands the investigation does not relate
to children in the care of the authority but is linked to social services.
A source said the offence was being treated seriously as it exposed security
flaws which could compromise public safety or be exploited by criminals.
It is believed that the woman was seeking to access information which could
have been exploited by a future employer.
Council spokesman Steven Reilly said: “We can confirm that a member of
staff has been suspended as part of an ongoing police investigation.
“Suspension is carried out in the interests of the member of staff and
the council - to allow a fair and thorough investigation. Because that
investigation is ongoing, we are unable to comment more specifically about the
matter at this time.”
The investigation is being led by the force's vulnerable people directorate
which deals with allegations of abuse towards children and vulnerable adults as
well as having responsibility for public protection.
A police spokesman said: “Officers from Norfolk Constabulary are
currently investigating an alleged breach of data protection at Norfolk County
Council.
“As part of our enquiries a 51-year-old female has been arrested in
connection with data protection offences and has since been released on police
bail, pending further enquiries.”
Dr.
C. N. M. Pounder
Director,
Amberhawk Training Ltd
Phone:
0845 680 2623 or Mob: 07735 365 585
www.amberhawk.com