Data Protection & Freedom of Information Office

Emergency Requests for Personal Information

In order to protect the vital interests of an individual or individuals in emergency situations, authorised agencies such as the Police or hospitals, may request personal data about specific individuals from the University. Examples are medical emergencies, accidents, and next-of-kin requirements.

Data protection legislation allows authorised agencies to request, and the University the authority to either release or decline to release, personal data without the explicit consent of the individual(s). The University must ensure that

(a) the release is necessary,

(b) it is not possible or practical in the circumstances to seek the necessary consent(s), and

(c) it is acting in good faith.

If such a request is received via phone then it should not be assumed that the identity claimed by the requester on the line is genuine.

The Police, and other authorised agencies, may request personal data about specific individuals from the University for the purposes of the prevention or detection of crime, and the apprehension or prosecution of offenders. Further information can be found on the Police requests for personal data page.

During office hours, please refer all reqests for information from the Police, or other authorised agencies, to the Data Protection & Freedom of Information Office.

Outwith office hours, please refer all requests for information from the Police, or other authorised agencies, to the Gatehouse.