example, you should not notify individuals if you have reason to believe that doing so may put the child at increased risk of harm. Likewise, in urgent cases, where a child is at immediate risk of harm, the priority is to share information quickly to protect the child, regardless of whether the relevant individual(s) have been informed. While you do not have to rely upon consent as the lawful basis for sharing information, you must make information sharing decisions on a case-by-case basis. Where a child or their carer objects you should consider their objection but still share information if you believe it is necessary to protect the child from harm. Sharing information in an urgent or emergency situation Urgent or emergency situations can arise that you may not have envisaged, and you may have to deal with them on the spot. In an emergency where you consider there is a risk of harm to a child, you should go ahead and share information as is necessary and proportionate. Delays in sharing information may increase the risk of harm to the child. You must always document the action you took after the event if you cannot do it at the time, including recording a clear rationale for your decision. For further information see Any information which you think could safeguard a child should be shared with relevant agencies or organisations 18 the ICO Statutory Data Sharing Code of Practice24 which contains guidance on sharing in an urgent situation or in an emergency. The benefits of sharing information early Practitioners should be proactive in sharing information as early as possible to help identify, assess and respond to risks or concerns about the safety of children, whether this is when problems are first emerging (e.g. persistent school absences), or where a child is alrea