Making a request for information
Your Rights Under the Act
The Act gives you rights as an individual on how personal information about you is
obtained, processed, stored and disclosed to other people. Under the Act you have:
- a right of access to a copy of the information comprised in your personal data;
- a right to object to processing that is likely to cause or is causing damage or distress;
- a right to prevent processing for direct marketing;
- a right to object to decisions being taken by automated means;
- a right in certain circumstances to have inaccurate personal data rectified, blocked, erased or destroyed; and
- a right to claim compensation for damages caused by a breach of the Act.
Right of Access
The Act gives you or your representative the right to see most records processed by or on behalf of the Council containing personal information about you. You will be required to provide proof of identity. There are exceptions to this such as mental health records and records involving social care services where additional legislation to limit access to personal data exists.
If you provide information in confidence about another individual your personal details will not be disclosed unless the Council obtains your permission. There are exceptions to this such as court orders and protection of the public.
How to See Your Records
A fee of £10 per application is required before any searches are made. The Council has 40 calendar days in which to provide the information as long as you or your representative has supplied sufficient information. If you would like to apply then complete and this form and send it to the Data Protection Officer. The address is shown at the end of the form.