Freedom of Information

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) gives a general right of access to all types of recorded information held by all public authorities, including Local and Central Government, Schools and Universities.

Its aim is to promote a culture of openness and accountability and to allow members of the public to gain a better understanding of how public bodies are run, their decision-making processes and how they spend public money.

Public authorities are obliged to make information available in two ways:

• through a publication scheme
• by responding to individual requests made to the authority or organisation.

Publication scheme

All public authorities are required to publish a publication scheme in compliance with the Act. The scheme provides details of the types of information the University makes routinely available, how the information can be accessed and whether there is a charge.

Access the University’s Publication Scheme (PDF - 0.22 Mb)

Making a request

If you would like to make a request for information to the University please use the form here to do so or you may also email us at foi-request@herts.ac.uk

Remember to

• Be as clear as possible when outlining your request; This helps us identify exactly what it is you are requesting. Provide dates of information where necessary. We may ask you to clarify your request if it is unclear.
• Provide us with contact details; You must provide us with your real name and contact details (email address is sufficient). Without these details we will not be able to respond to your request.
• Let us know which format you would prefer the information; We will do our best to meet your requirements.

The University will acknowledge your request and will aim to reply within 20 working days from the date that your request is received and verified. If there is a delay to us responding, we will let you know.

Exempt information

Some information is exempt from provision under the Act and is covered by an exemption as set out in the legislation itself. Where we think an exemption may apply and we need extra time to consider the balance of the public interest in disclosing the information, the Freedom of Information Act 2000 allows an extra 20 working days to respond. We will let you know if we intend to make use of this extension.

Charges and fees

The legislation operates a fees regime so any charges incurred in responding to a request will be charged in line with that framework. The University will make every attempt to manage the request within the fees limit where possible, and you will be informed of any charges before you receive a full response from us.

Complaints

If you are dissatisfied with how your request was handled, please email legal@herts.ac.uk, and your complaint will be addressed by the internal appeals procedure. The University’s Freedom of Information Act policy can be viewed here.