CFOI Training

Course Summary:

The CFOI is an intensive 5 day course that provides a comprehensive review of both the UK’s Freedom of Information Acts (FOIA & FOISA), the Environmental Information Regulations (EIR’s) and the records management code of practice.

The need to understand complex exemptions and where to apply the public interest test is critical at a time when the traditional culture of secrecy within the public sector is being transformed to one of disclosure and openness.

Who Would Benefit?

Those experienced in Freedom of Information, as well as those new to the subject, need to be trained so that their organisations are assured compliance is continually addressed. This includes; FOI and DP practitioners, IG Managers, Records Managers, Information Asset Owners, Lawyers, Auditors, Librarians, Archivists and Communications Managers.

Course Overview

The aim of CFOI is to promote an in-depth understanding of how Freedom of Information works in practice. It places compliance in the context of good information and records management, rather than focusing solely on legal requirements.
On attaining the qualification, award holders will possess an appreciation of Freedom of Information in its widest context, as well as understanding the key differences between FOIA and FOISA. Additionally, delegates will be able to demonstrate links to associated legislation such as the Public Records Act, the Data Protection Act and Environmental Information Regulations.
Award holders will also be able to develop practical procedures for the processing and monitoring of an FOI request through to the application of exemptions to access and the public interest test.

Course Contents

 History & Origins
 8 Duties of the Act
 What is Freedom of Information?
 Relationships with other legislation
 Who is affected by FOI?
 Held Information
 The Process
Codes of Practice(s)
Including Electronic Records
Publication Scheme
 Exemptions
Absolute, Qualified & Part Absolute
The Public Interest Test
The Harm Test
EIR Exceptions
 The Role of the Commissioners
 Complaints/Review procedures
 Enforcement
Practice Recommendations
Notices
Information Tribunal
Offences
 Associated Legislation

CFOI Training Inverness, Aberdeen, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Dunfermline and other sites throughout the UK including onsite closed company courses are available.

CFOI Training Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, India, Ghana and Nigeria is also available.