What Caldicott Guardian told us: survey findings

Written By Layla Heyes

In summer 2025, we invited Caldicott Guardians across the UK to share their experiences and tell us how the UKCGC might support them more effectively. Over 1,100 Caldicott Guardians responded, representing a wide range of sectors, organisation types and thousands of years of differing experience. Thank you to all who participated. 

What we heard: 

  • Over two thirds of Caldicott Guardians feel confident in carrying out their role, but levels of organisational support and protected time vary considerably. 

  • Training opportunities are inconsistent, and there is strong demand for role-specific learning, including case studies and step-by-step examples. Many are interested in networks, mentoring, webinars and shared learning. 

  • The topics that Caldicott Guardians would most like the UKCGC to prioritise are: AI and new technology; information sharing and legal frameworks, and safeguarding. 

  • Around a third of Caldicott Guardians are concerned about Principle 4 being upheld in their organisation, with 12% of Caldicott Guardians responding to an inappropriate access related incident in the last 12 months. 

  • Over 9 in 10 Caldicott Guardians are happy to support a campaign related to inappropriate access to data. 

Looking ahead: 

The UKCGC will use these findings to: 

  • Develop practical tools and guidance for Caldicott Guardians ensuring this is always up-to-date and relevant. 

  • Expand training and professional development options 

  • Strengthen opportunities for peer networking and shared learning through the Digital Health Network forum and the Breakfast Clubs and Evening Classes. 

There is strong support for a joint campaign alongside the National Data Guardian (NDG) to reduce inappropriate access to medical records by staff. We will be developing this over the coming year and will keep you informed, as we’ll be counting on your help to share the message across your organisations. 

We would welcome contributions from anyone who would like to share insight or ideas to inform the campaign’s development, or who would be willing to review and provide feedback on our plans and materials. As Caldicott Guardians managing issues of inappropriate access within your organisations, your expertise and perspective are vital. Email us at england.ukcgcsecretariat@nhs.net 

Layla Heyes
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Help shape the future of UKCGC: a short survey for Caldicott Guardians