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 University | Freedom of Information 

Freedom of Information

• Index
• FAQs - for staff
• FAQs - for the public

• What is an access request?
• Handling requests
• Making a request

• Background
• Contents
• Introduction
• Structure & management
• Financial resources
• Human resources
• Physical resources
• Student admin. & support
• Information services
• Learning & teaching
• Research & development
• External relations
• Index of scheme classes

• Data protection
• Records management

Frequently asked questions - for the public

If you have any questions relating to the Freedom of Information Act 2000 please contact Lizzie Richmond, the Freedom of Information Co-ordinator (extn. 3464).

How do I access information?

There are two ways you can access information held by the University using the Freedom of Information Act. The first is via the Publication Scheme which lists the types of information the University makes available to the public as a matter of routine e.g. prospectuses, the Library and Learning Centre catalogue and the minutes of some committees. The second is by making a request.

How do I make a request?

A request for information must be in writing (letter, e-mail or fax). If you wish to submit a request for information held by the University of Bath please see Making a request.

What will happen when I have made a request?

You will receive a reply to your request within 20 working days of its receipt confirming whether the University holds the information you have asked for, and either providing the information or stating why the information is being withheld.

Please note that the University may make a charge for the provision of certain types of requested information.

Can I make copies of the information I receive?

All University publications are subject to copyright protection. The Freedom of Information Act does not transfer copyright in any information supplied under it. You must, therefore, obtain permission before copying, redistributing or publishing all or part of any information provided in response to your request.

What do I do if I am not happy with the reply I receive?

If you are not happy with the response you receive you may ask the University to conduct an internal review. Requests for internal review should be addressed in writing to: The University Secretary, Wessex House, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY.

If you are dissatisfied with the outcome of the University's internal review you may appeal to the Information Commissioner. You should address any appeals of this kind to: The Information Commissioner, Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 5AF.

Is there any information which the University does not have to make available?

The Freedom of Information Act outlines some types of information which are exempt from disclosure. Generally the University is not required to disclose:

• Information about living individuals the processing of which is covered by the Data Protection Act 1998.
• Information that might jeopardize the health and safety of staff, students or the public.
• Information that might prejudice the University's commercial interests.
• Information that would prejudice the prevention or detection of crime or the prosecution of offenders.
• Information concerning legal proceedings or investigations being carried out by the University that might lead to criminal or civil proceedings.
• Information held under obligation of confidentiality.
• Information that is published elsewhere or that is intended for publication at a later date (e.g. draft versions of documents, information subject to amendment or approval by the appropriate University body).

Can I access information about me held by the University?

Access to personal information is regulated by the Data Protection Act 1998. If you have any questions relating to information the University holds about you, contact the Data Protection Officer.

 University | Freedom of Information