Requesting information about you, or someone you care for

Find out the types of information we hold and how to request it

Request a child's personal information

The right of access to a child's data is the right of that child, and not their parent or guardian. If the child is very young or unable to understand this right a person with parental responsibility may usually make a request on their behalf. But it remains the right of the child rather than anyone else such as a parent or guardian.

If your child is under the age of 12 and you hold parental responsibility for them, we will usually respond to you.

If your child is over the age of 12 then they are considered mature enough to use their right of access. This means that we will need their consent to provide you with their information. We will either:

We may check submitted consent from a child if we have any cause for concern. We will do this before processing your request.

We have a duty of care to all young people in Essex. We will only disclose child data where our professionals believe it is in the child best interests. The law requires us to satisfy ourselves of your legal entitlement before providing access to the personal data of your child.

To request information about your child, you will need to provide:

  • your full name
  • your address
  • your telephone number and / or email address
  • proof of your identity, such as a valid passport, driving license or full birth certificate
  • your child's full name
  • your child's date of birth
  • your child's full birth certificate
  • consent from your child if they are over 12 years of age

Completing our downloadable form is the best way to make sure that you are giving us the right information. Please check the information we do not hold before making your request.

Complete a request form (DOC, 50.53kB)

Email your completed request form to transparencyteam@essex.gov.uk or post it to:

Transparency Team
PO Box 11
County Hall
Chelmsford
Essex
CM1 1LX

If you are unable to complete the form or email us, please call the Transparency Team on 033301 39853.

Find out what happens after you have made a request.