Records retention — social work (Nova Scotia)
Ensure each service user record is stored and preserved in a secure location for at least 7 years from the date of the LAST ENTRY. Where the service user was under 18 at the date of the last entry, retain for at least 7 years from the day they became or would have become 18. Longer periods may be required by law or by employer or self-employed-member policy, and such policies should be developed with a view to the potential future need for the record. Separately: store records securely and prevent unauthorised access (s. 6.2.11); transfer or dispose of records in a way that protects confidentiality and complies with applicable legislation (s. 6.2.12); take reasonable precautions to protect confidential information on termination of practice, incapacity, or death (s. 6.2.13); and comply with retention, storage, preservation and security requirements in applicable privacy and other legislation, including a thorough understanding of an employing organisation’s policies (s. 6.2.14).
“6.2.15 ensuring that each service user record is stored and preserved in a secure location for at least seven years from the date of the last entry or, if the service user was less than eighteen years of age at the date of the last entry, at least seven years from the day the service user became or would have become eighteen. Different periods of storage time may be required by law.” — NSCSW Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, s. 6.2.15 (effective 2026-02-01)