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.
On this page
- What are HR records?
- The UK legal position
- How this checklist of retention periods is organised
- Statutory retention periods
- Recommended (non-statutory) retention periods
- Useful contacts and further reading
Members access only
Unlock exclusive, tailored content and resources, just for members.
Sign in to accessNot a member yet? Find out how you can become a member today!
CIPD Trust
Tackling barriers to work today whilst creating inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.
Find out moreBullying
and harassment
Discover our practice guidance and recommendations to tackle bullying and harassment in the workplace.
View our resourcesRelated content
Focus on
Workplace conflictExplore our resources to help you and your organisation effectively manage and resolve workplace conflict.
Latest factsheets
Factsheet
Zero-hours contractsUnderstand the advantages and disadvantages of zero-hours contracts, recent UK legislative changes, and good practices to follow
For Members
Factsheet
Technology, AI and the future of workHow artificial intelligence (AI), robots and automation are shaping the world of work, the ethical considerations and the role of people professionals.
Factsheet
Learning theories that impact on designLearn about the influence of theories on how people learn and the shift away from simplistic learning styles theory
For Members
Factsheet
Harassment and bullying at workUnderstand what bullying and harassment at work is, and how employers and employees can address the problem