Freedom of Information
Frequently asked questions
- What is the Freedom of Information Act?
- What is a publication scheme?
- The ‘model’ publication scheme for higher and further education
- Accessing information covered by the publication scheme
- Information not covered by the publication scheme
- Responsibility for the scheme
- Complaints and appeals
What is the Freedom of Information Act?
The Freedom of Information Act was passed on 30th November 2000, and aims to promote greater openness and accountability across the public sector, by giving a general right of public access to all types of ‘recorded’ information held by public authorities. By definition of ‘public authorities’ this includes all higher and further educational institutions. From 1st January 2005, individual information requests must be answered within 20 working days.
A publication scheme is a document that outlines the information that the public authority publishes or that which will be published in the future. It is not a list of documents but a guide to the different ‘classes’ or types of information the institution is making a formal commitment to make publicly accessible. A new Publication Scheme was issued in 2008 by the Information Commissioner’s Office which was effective from 1st January 2009.
The ‘model’ publication scheme for higher and further education
To maintain consistency, a model publication scheme was designed for FE and HE institutions, with types of information and documents listed within each class. This intends to assist the public in accessing information across the sector, excluding that which will be exempt from disclosure by the Act, which does not have to be provided. Exemptions exist for various purposes; these include national security, law enforcement, commercial interests and data protection.
Accessing information covered by the publication scheme
There are seven classes of information identified in the publication scheme. The majority of documents can be downloaded from the online version of the publication scheme. Others are available in paper copy by applying to the contact address given below. Online publications are free, but there will be photocopying and postage charges made, especially where large documents or multiple copies are requested.
Information not covered by the publication scheme
Information requests should be made in writing to the Freedom of Information Officer, whereafter Glyndŵr University has 20 working days to respond. A fee may be charged, calculated according to Freedom of Information and Data Protection (Appropriate Limit and Fees) Regulations 2004, provided by the Information Commissioner as a guideline for public authorities. Information subject to an exemption in the Act will not be released.
Overall responsibility for the Glyndŵr University publication scheme is held by the Pro Vice Chancellor, Administration.
If you are not satisfied with the way we have handled your request or with the reasons we have given for refusing to provide information, you have the right to appeal. Questions, comments or complaints should be sent to the address below:
The Academic Registrar
Glyndŵr University
Plas Coch
Mold Road
Wrexham
LL11 2AW
The Information Commissioner is responsible for enforcing the operation of each publication scheme within the public sector and you may appeal direct to him at any time at the address below.
The Information Commissioner
Wycliffe House
Water Lane
Wilmslow
Cheshire
SK9 5AF
Tel: 08456 30 60 60 or 01625 54 57 45
Fax: 01625-545-510
Web: www.ico.gov.uk
9 December 2008