ISEB Certificate in Freedom of Information

The ISEB Certificate in Freedom of Information is appropriate for those experienced in Freedom of Information and those new to the subject. The syllabus places emphasis on promoting an understanding of how Freedom of Information works in practice rather than simply focusing on the mechanisms and legal requirements involved.

This is also available in-house

ISEB Certificate in Freedom of Information
(6.5 Day course)

This is a new Certificate based on all aspects of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) and the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2000 (FOISA) and their implications to public and private sector organizations, as well as to individuals.

A professional industry recognized qualification in Freedom of Information

Introduction

There is a need to provide adequate training on the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) and the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 (FOISA) and their implications to public and private sector organizations, as well as to individuals.

Structure

The syllabus comprises six parts:

• Context – origins and background
• Definitions and scope of the Acts
• Obligations and responsibilities – requirements and practices
• Disclosure/Non-disclosure – exemptions
• Enforcement
• Related legislation.

Those experienced in Freedom of Information issues, as well as those new to the subject, so that their organizations are confident that legal compliance is continually addressed. It is necessary to identify issues requiring expert Freedom of Information advice in good time in order that organizational reputation and credibility is enhanced through relevant information and records management policies and procedures.

The ISEB Certificate in Freedom of Information provides a qualification that demonstrates confidence for those with Freedom of Information responsibilities within their organizations. It also provides an effective conversion route for those experienced in similar legislation in other countries needing to update their knowledge of the two UK Acts. As the syllabus covers both the FOIA and the FOISA, successful candidates will have a good understanding of Freedom of Information throughout the UK.

The aim of the syllabus

The aim of the syllabus is to promote an understanding of how Freedom of Information works in practice, rather than simply focusing on the mechanisms and legal requirements involved. The syllabus places compliance with the Acts in the context of good information and records management practices within the organization. On attaining the Certificate, award holders will possess:

• an appreciation of Freedom of Information in its widest context
• an understanding of the key differences and interface between the FOIA and FOISA
• an understanding of the interface with Data Protection and Environmental Information issues
• an ability to develop procedures for the processing and monitoring of a request for information
• an understanding of exemptions to access and the public interest test
• an understanding of the enforcement/legal action procedures enshrined in the Acts
• an ability to identify information likely to be requested and an understanding of the mechanism for publishing prior to request
• an ability to explain the philosophy of freedom of information and the right of access to public authority information.

This Freedom of Information course is non-residential.

Further information

Fee: £2,215 + VAT