Retention Period for Personal Information
The schedule also incorporates recommendations from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse to ensure best practice and appropriate long‑term retention where required.
It covers the full lifecycle of records and information, from creation to either secure destruction or permanent preservation.
Children and Families information – summary of retention periods
Retention periods for Children and Families records
- Adoptions Management
100 years from date of adoption order (minimum) - Case Management
75 years from date of birth of the youngest child - Child Protection
75 years from date of birth of the youngest child - Children in Need
75 years from date of birth of the youngest child - Foster Care Supervision and Support (Unsuccessful or withdrawn applicants)
3 years from decision or withdrawal - Foster Care Supervision and Support (Successful applicants)
10 years from termination of approval - LADO (Local Authority Designated Officer)
75 years from date of last action - Looked After Children
Until persons 75th Birthday - Residential Homes Management and Administration
15 years from date created - Safeguarding
75 years from date of birth of the youngest child - Targeted Intervention and Support
75 years from date of birth of the youngest child - Youth Offender Support and Supervision
75 years from date of birth of the youngest child
Further information
Full details of retention triggers, disposal actions and legislative authorities are available in the Sandwell Children’s Trust Retention Schedule
