How to Submit a SAR (Subject Access Request)

What is a Subject Access Request (SAR)?

A Subject Access Request (SAR) is a legal right under the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018. It allows you to request a copy of the personal information that an organisation holds about you.

As a foster carer, this may be useful if you're involved in an allegation or Standards of Care (SOC) concern, and want to see what information your local authority, fostering agency, or even the police holds about you.

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What to Expect

They must respond in 28 days, but this can be extended if it is deemed that they need more time

It’s free, unless your request is “manifestly unfounded or excessive”

You’ll receive a copy of your personal data, not third-party data unless it’s lawful to share

You will likely get a lot of redacted data

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Example Template

Subject: Subject Access Request

Dear [Name or Department],

I am writing to make a Subject Access Request under the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR.

I am a foster carer registered with [insert agency or LA name], and I would like to request a copy of all personal information your organisation holds about me.

This includes any emails, reports, notes, or records relating to me, including during the time of [insert relevant date or allegation if applicable].

Please confirm receipt of this request and let me know if you require any ID or further information to proceed.

Kind regards, [Your Full Name] [Date of Birth] [Address] [Email]

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We are pleased to have been accredited by RSQS. The accreditation mark provides confidence and assurance that we are complying with standards including sector specific legislation, corporate responsibility, information security and GDPR and it shows that we have demonstrated compliance to regulators, internal policies and governance controls.The accreditation process was undertaken by supplier information and risk management specialists Hellios and accreditation is by invitation only once you have been approached by an organisation looking to procure your services.

You may have seen John Lewis Partnership announce their intention to become a fostering friendly employer.

FosterSupport is one of the organisations who have been working with them over the past year. After many months of collaboration this August we facilitated a series of bespoke training courses to JLP managers to give them an insight into the trauma informed training foster carers use when supporting young people to enable them to better understand how to support their care experienced employees. This collaboration will continue next year as they continue to expand their employment scheme. We have also had meetings to provide advice and information to support their bespoke fostering friendly employer scheme. With our support they plan to make this the gold standard policy for fostering friendly organisations.

‍HERE is the video we made for them to promote the internal training sessions. The feedback we received from them about the training was brilliant.

How to Submit a SAR (Subject Access Request)

What is a Subject Access Request (SAR)?

When Might a Foster Carer Use a SAR?

Who Can You Submit a SAR To?

What to Expect

How to Make a Subject Access Request (Step-by-Step)

Example Template