Rather quietly today ContactPoint, a database of all the children in England, was launched. It will contain names, DOB, addresses, details of school, doctor and contact details for parents/guardians. The data on the 11 million children will be made available to local authorities.
Not only did this cost over 220 million pounds, but its launch was delayed because of security fears!
Apparently it will help prevent children slipping through the system and help deliver better co-ordinated services. I can see that, but with the Government’s data security track record I find the existence of this database alarming. Apparently no one will be able to download the data, so we don’t have to worry about someone leaving the details on a train. But what about ID theft? What about someone who shouldn’t gaining access to the system?
For more information (and a balanced view) see http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/education/8052512.stm
Allie
