Freedom of Information

The Freedom of Information Act entitles people to see information held by public bodies, including universities, subject to certain exemptions like security and commercial interest. It does not entitle them to see personal information about themselves or others – the Data Protection Act allows individuals access to information held about them.

Requests should be fulfilled within 20 working days and, except for postage and printing costs, should only be charged for when they cost more than a set amount to research.

Many organisations maintain publication schemes on their websites, listing what information is already available and how to access it. Often some of it is accessible for immediate viewing.