The Freedom of Information Act 2000 creates 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. The probation boards in England and Wales are public authorities under the Act.

The Department for Constitutional Affairs leads on policy related to the Act and the Codes of Practice for public authorities on compliance and records management for which the Act provides.

The Information Commissioner has a duty to promote best practice under the Act and to ensure compliance.

The address is:

The Information Commissioner

Wycliffe House

Water Lane

Wilmslow SK9 5AF

The Commissioner’s website www.informationcommissioner.gov.uk carries useful guidance and reports, as well as information about the role of the Commissioner.

The Freedom of Information Act covers non-personal information. Requests for information about individuals is covered by the Data Protection Act of 1998, for access to this kind of information you should make a subject access request.

To make a request for information to Dorset Probation Trust, under the Freedom of Information Act, please telephone Dorset Probation HQ on:

01202 664060