How do I make a Subject Access Request?
Your request for information must be made in writing and you will need to provide proof of identity. To help you make a request the Council has a Subject Access application form.

If you want access to CCTV information you will need to use the special CCTV application form. A charge of £10.00 is applicable to all requests for information made under the Data Protection Act.

When we have received your request and we have enough information to action it we must give you the information within 40 calendar days.

Sometimes, your personal information may contain information about other individuals. This is referred to as 'third party information'. You are only permitted to access information about you and we may have to withhold or edit information, so that it does not identify third parties.

Can I use email to make a subject access request?
No, because you need to provide original proof of identity/authority and you cannot do this by email. You may also need to provide us with quite detailed personal information, so that we can find your records. Sending this type of information to us by email is not very secure, so it is better if you use our application form.

Can I make a request for someone else?
Yes, but we need to be absolutely sure that you are authorised by them to make the request. Proof must be in writing and signed by that person.

Sometimes the person who you are making the request for is unable to exercise their right of access because they are too young or they do not have the mental capacity to understand their rights.

Parents/carers are able to make application on behalf of children, but they have no automatic right to the information. If a child is old enough to give informed consent of the information, the Council will be guided by their wishes. In all cases, disclosure of information will only occur if it is in the best interests of the child.

Authority to act on behalf of an adult lacking mental capacity would normally require a lasting power of attorney, which we will ask to see a copy of before we disclose the information.

I've filled in the application form, where do I have to send it?
Once you have filled in and signed the application form, send it back to the following address:

Data Protection Officer,
Bournemouth Borough Council,
Legal Services,
Town Hall,
Bourne Avenue,
Bournemouth,
Dorset,
BH2 6DY

Don't forget to enclose your identification and your £10.00 fee

Once we receive your application form we will write to you to confirm receipt of your request which is when the 40 day deadline starts.