Freedom of information

What is the Freedom of Information Act?

The Freedom of Information Act (2000) gives a general right of access, subject to certain exemptions, to all types of recorded information held by public authorities, which for the purposes of the Act includes universities. The aim of the Act is to promote greater openness and transparency in how public authorities operate and in their use of public funding.

The University is committed to being as transparent as possible and to fully complying with all data legislation. To support us in this aim, the Information Assurance Services has developed the University's Code of Practice for Freedom of Information.

The department has a wide range of other functions including the Information Assurance Services which helps to guide and advise all areas of the University to develop policies that comply with freedom of Information legislation. It also helps to implement compliance procedures, process requests for information made under the Freedom of Information Act, manage complaints, and co-ordinate maintenance of the University's Publication Scheme.

In addition to all this the department also helps manage relations with the Information Commissioners Office and other external bodies, as well as promoting general awareness of freedom of information issues and providing training where necessary.