All organisations collect data relating to their employees. 

This factsheet introduces the legal position on the retention of HR records in the UK, including the Data Protection Act 2018. It offers two checklists: one giving statutory retention periods where these exist, and the other giving recommendations for keeping information.

Member tool: CIPD Buddy BETA
Use AI to find answers on this topic with our prototype. Login to explore CIPD Buddy

To continue reading, log in or become a member

Affiliate membership offers instant access to CIPD resources without the need for assessments or study, or explore your options to become a professional member of the CIPD to demonstrate your commitment to the world of work.

  • Access to exclusive, up-to-date resources
  • Become part of a community to learn, debate and connect with other people professionals
  • Free access to a series of CIPD learning courses and a discount on the rest of our catalogue
  • Factsheet

    HR outsourcing

    An overview of HR outsourcing, its use within organisations and its alternatives

    For Members
  • Podcast

    HR People Pod

    Listen to episodes of HR People Pod, the CIPD’s fortnightly podcast providing expert insights from HR leaders discussing the topical issues impacting the world of work.

    Listen now
  • Factsheet

    HR outsourcing

    An overview of HR outsourcing, its use within organisations and its alternatives

    For Members
  • Factsheet

    Succession planning

    Understand what succession planning involves, the link between succession planning and talent management programmes, and the role of people professionals in the process

  • Factsheet

    Recruitment: An introduction

    Looks at the main stages of the recruitment and resourcing process, from defining the role to making the appointment

    For Members
  • Factsheet

    Contracts of employment

    Introductory guidance to the ‘contract of service’, the written statement of particulars, and varying the contractual terms

    For Members
  • All factsheets