The purpose of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 is to promote openness and accountability across the public sector. The Freedom of Information Act 2000 gives individual’s the right to request information held by public bodies. It requires the University to make the information available, unless an exemption applies.
Under the Act, the University is required to produce and maintain a Publication Scheme which sets out the information that is routinely available. Much of this information can be found on the University website.
If the information that you require is not available in the Publication Scheme, you can send your request in writing to:
Information Compliance Team,
University Secretary’s Office
University of South Wales
Pontypridd
CF37 1DL
Or by e-mail to: [email protected]
Complaints related to Freedom of Information
The University aims to provide a high standard of service to everyone with whom it deals. Sometimes however, for any number of reasons, this does not happen and the University falls short of its stated aims. In the event of this happening the University would like to hear from you so that steps can be taken to rectify the situation.
The Publication Scheme
It is important that the University’s publication scheme meets your needs. If you find the scheme difficult to understand, please let us know. We also welcome suggestions as to how the scheme might be improved. Any questions or comments about the scheme can be lodged by writing to us at the address below or emailing us at [email protected].
Request Handling
Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, you have certain rights of review against a University decision relating to an information request if you are dissatisfied with the way your request has been handled. These rights can be exercised via two review processes. Firstly, by using the complaints procedure detailed below; secondly by applying direct to the Information Commissioner’s Office.
Note: Before an appeal is made to the Information Commissioner the University’s internal complaints procedure should be completed.
Stage 1: What should I do if I am not happy with the service I have received?
If you wish to make a complaint please write to the University at the address below:
Eloise Rosser,
University of South Wales
Pontypridd
CF37 1DL
e-mail: [email protected]
If your problem cannot be resolved immediately the responsible officer will let you know how long it might take. The University aims to respond to your complaint and provide a full response within 20 working days. If your complaint is complicated it may take longer to investigate. If this proves to be the case you will be given an explanation as to why and when you can expect a response.
Stage 2: What should I do if am not happy with the outcome of Stage 1?
If you are not satisfied with our response to a complaint you may ask the Information Commissioner to investigate the matter at his own discretion:
FOI Compliance Team (complaints)
Wycliffe House
Water Lane
Wilmslow
SK9 5AF
e-mail: [email protected]
phone: 01625 545700
fax: 01625 545510