The Data Security and Protection Toolkit is an online self-assessment tool that allows organisations to measure their performance against the National Data Guardian’s 10 data security standards.
All organisations that have access to NHS patient data and systems must use this toolkit to provide assurance that they are practising good data security and that personal information is handled correctly.
This system is subject to ongoing development.
What's new?
Changes to the DSPT for large NHS Organisations in 2024-25 and Independent providers who are Operators of Essential Services (OES) 25-26 (updated 15 Sept 2025)
Details about how the DSPT is changing for Independent Providers who are Operators of Essential Services and has changed in 24-25 for NHS Trusts, CSUs, ALBs and ICBs and a copy of the 23-24 DSPT Outcomes and Indicators of good practice, FAQs, a mapping to other frameworks, example scoping templates and DSPT mapping for NHS Trusts, OES, CSUs, ALBs and ICBs. FAQs have been updated.
Toolkit webinars and update events for 2025-26 (10 September 2025)
Includes details of dates and Teams details of Webinars through June 2026. (Note change of Date for September Webinar for Dentists, GPs, Local Authorities, Opticians, Others (including Hospice and Charities), Pharmacies and University (including Researchers)
Outcomes, Assertions and Evidence items for the Data Security and Protection Toolkit 2025-26 version 8 (10 September 2025)
Data Security and Protection Toolkit 2025-26 version 8 in spreadsheet format.
System changes and release notes (updated 1 September 2025)
A high-level summary of recent changes (including the release of the functionality to upload audits) is provided here for reference.
Improvement Plans - Instructions for 2024-2025 (12 June 2025)
This applies to NHS Trusts, Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), Commissioning Support Units (CSUs), Independent Providers who are Operators of Essential Services under NIS, Key IT Suppliers, Local Authorities and Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) Arm's Length Bodies (ALBs). Now including example Improvement plan.
Toolkit webinar slides (Updated 19 June 2025)
Including video and presentation slides from recent Webinar sessions including the hints and tips for the DSPT for 24-25.
