LetchWood Business Management.           

     Data control                 
 

This section looks at some of the problems associated with managing records; how you can set-up a sensible policy for storing your important records, how you decide what to keep and for how long and finally, who can see your records and in what circumstances. Data protection affects everyone but freedom of information only applies to the public sector, both require you to treat your records with respect and restrict access to personal data while making-sure that the public can see all that they are entitled to.

The data protection act has been in force for over twenty years, and it is now being joined by the freedom of information act. At first sight, the aims of the two acts are in conflict; how do you keep data secure and allow free access to information at the same time? In fact they complement each other. While the Data Protection Act continues to ensure that people’s personal details are kept secure, the Freedom of Information Act guarantees that all other information is open and accessible.

In these pages we will remind you about the purpose of the Data Protection Act, and explain how the Freedom of Information Act supports it. You will find practical guidance about how to deal with information requests, how long you have to respond to a request, and we will also explain how you can protect personal data while complying with the law.

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Last modified: 08/31/11