The Freedom of Information Act 2000, which was passed on 30 November 2000, gives a general right of access to all types of 'recorded' information held by public authorities.  It also sets out exemptions from that right and places a number of obligations on public authorities with regards to the way in which they provide information. In other words, the Freedom of Information Act ensures the right of individuals to obtain access to official information to the greatest extent possible consistent with the public interest, while protecting legitimately confidential information.

You already have the right of access to information about yourself under the Data Protection Act 1998. As far as public authorities are concerned, the Freedom of Information Act will extend this right to allow public access to all types of information held. A 'public authority' is defined in the Act and includes Investors in People UK. The definition also includes central and local government, the health service, educational institutions and other non-departmental public bodies.

If you make a request to Investors in People UK for information, you will be informed whether we hold that information and, if we do, whether that information will be supplied. Investors in People UK also has a duty to provide advice or assistance to anyone seeking information on what is readily available. The Investors in People UK Publication Scheme has been compiled to proactively satisfy all these requirements.