Freedom of Information
The Act
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 is designed to establish a culture of openness and transparency in public administration. It gives a general right of access to all types of recorded information held by public authorities, sets out exemptions from that right and places a number of obligations on public authorities. A ‘public authority’ is defined in the Act, and includes colleges. Every public authority must publish a scheme listing all the classes of information it makes available to the public.
Any person who makes a request to a public authority for information must normally be informed whether it holds that information and, subject to exemptions, be supplied with that information (a fee may be charged). The legislation also establishes the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) with responsibility for ensuring compliance with the requirements of the Act. Individuals already have the right of access to information about themselves under the Data Protection Act 2018. As far as public authorities are concerned, the Freedom of Information Act extends this right to allow public access to all types of information held.
The Publication Scheme
In line with the Freedom of Information Act 2000, Birmingham Metropolitan College is committed to making information about the College and its work available to the public. It has adopted the Model Publication Scheme and Definition Document for Colleges of Further Education provided by the ICO.
Please click here to view the College’s policy on Freedom of Information.
To request information please contact the College’s Data Protection Officer, Lisa Hutchinson – dpo@bmet.ac.uk
Lisa Hutchinson
Data Protection Officer
Birmingham Metropolitan College
Jennens Road
Birmingham
B4 7PS