FREEDOM OF INFORMATION/DATA PROTECTION ACT
The full Data Protection Act and all of its associated regulations came into force on 1 March 2000. The two main objectives are:
- to protect the interests of individuals about whom data is processed on computers and in some manual filing systems
- to facilitate the flow of personal data between the European countries in particular and other countries with equivalent protection
There are eight data protection principles that data controllers must comply with, even if they are exempt from notification.
In summary, the principles require that data shall be:
- fairly and lawfully processed
- processed for limited purposes
- adequate, relevant and not excessive
- accurate
- not kept longer than necessary
- processed in accordance with the data subjects' rights
- secure
- not transferred to countries outside the European Economic Area without adequate protection
Make a subject access request
If you want to make a request to see your personal data, this is called a subject access request and we are allowed to charge you a fee of up to £10 before providing the information to you.
Requests should be sent to:
John Lewis
Richard C Arnold Optometrists
3,4 Exchange Buildings
Petersfield
Hampshire
GU32 3JU
We will deal with your request as quickly as possible, normally within the 40 calendar days limit set by the DPA. The 40 days will start after payment of the fee. You may also be asked to supply proof of your identity.
Our full Freedom of Information policy is maintained in our Procedures Handbook and is available on request. Please ask if you would like to see the policy.
