JISC makes Freedom of Information issues clearer for researchers

Managing requests for research data under Freedom of Information (FoI) and Environmental Information Regulation legislation has just got easier for researchers with the launch of a step-by-step guidance document.

While researchers routinely share data with each other as part of their normal business, they are not so familiar with the often daunting task of responding to Freedom of Information or Environmental Information requests.

To help jump this hurdle JISC has created a simple to use set of questions and answers to help navigate the subject.  The information provided will support  researchers in responding to requests and in liaising with FoI practitioners or information officers in their institution.  The guide also makes suggestions on best practice to streamline the process.

Simon Hodson, JISC programme manager, explains, “Research funders are increasingly including the need for a data management plan at the research grant application stage and this could also help researchers address issues of confidentiality, privacy, ethics and security, making responding to FoI requests easier.

“This guidance, written specifically for researchers, adds to the current resources available from JISC Legal and JISC InfoNET on Freedom of Information and managing research records.”

Chris Rusbridge, previously director of the Digital Curation Centre, who helped put the guidance together with Dr Andrew Charlesworth, said, “There is good protection against premature disclosure of research data in Scotland. Oddly, in the rest of the UK the best way to reduce the chances of premature disclosure may well be to have a policy to publish the research data once the research is finished.

“However, the main message here, if you get a request, is to involve your local FoI Officer as soon as possible.”

Key points include

• How to recognise a freedom of information request
• The timescales in which to respond
• Exemptions and the Public Interest Test
• The relationship between the Data Protection Act and Freedom of Information/Environmental Information requests
• Why it matters which UK country you live in
• Considerations for a data management plan

You can read the guidance here.