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Data Protection Act
The Data Protection Act 1998 sets out rules for processing personal information and applies to some paper records as well as to those held on computers. The Data Protection Act works in two ways. It gives you certain rights. It also says those who record and use personal information must be open about how the information is used and must follow the eight principles of 'good information handling'.
These say that data must be:
1. fairly and lawfully processed
2. processed for limited purposes
3. adequate, relevant and not excessive
4. accurate
5. not kept for longer than is necessary
6. processed in line with your rights
7. secure
8. not transferred to countries without adequate protection.
By law, we must keep to these principles.
The Data Protection Act 1998 gives individuals who are the subject of personal data ("data subjects") a general right of access to the personal data which relates to them. These rights, known as "subject access rights" are contained in sections seven, eight and nine of the Act.
Individuals can make requests to us and any other organisation ("data controllers") that hold information about them. Such access to records and other information about those records is known as a "subject access request". Personal data may take the form of computerised records or in some cases, paper records.
How do I ask for information?
You will need to put your request in writing to the Strategy and Performance Department, Bolsover District Council, The Arc, High Street, Clowne, Derbyshire S43 4JY or download our 
Data Subject Access Request Form (updated January 2013). We need to be sure that you are who you say you are, so you should include your full name and address, two forms of identification, such as a utlity bill, driving licence or passport, etc and any reference number that will help us.
We will let you know that we have received your request and that it is being dealt with.
Do I have to pay for the information?
Yes. A £10 fee applies to all Data Protection requests.
How long will it take to receive the information?
We have to respond to you within 40 calendar days of receiveing your request, but will do our best to provide the information as quickly as possible.
What can I expect to receive?
We will send you details of the information we hold about you. There are certain circumstances where we may not be able to send you all of the information we hold about you. If this is the case, we will explain why we cannot meet your request.
What can I do if I am not satisfied with your response?
Contact the Customer Service and Performance Department first if you have any questions or concerns about your request, or if the information we send to you is wrong.
When we send you the information you requested, or tell you why the information has been withheld, we will also let you know what to do if you are unhappy with the way the request was handled or if you want to appeal against the decision. This will include details of our own complaints procedure and contact details of the Information Commissioner's Office.
For further information please telephone 01246 242343, submit an enquiry form or look at our Customer's guide to requesting information from the Council.
Last Updated on Tuesday, 15 January 2013 13:31
