What is the right of access?
The right of access, commonly known as making a subject access request (SAR), gives individuals the right to obtain a copy of their personal data, as well as other supplementary information. It helps individuals to understand how and why the Trust is using your personal data, and check we are doing it lawfully.
How can I apply for access to my records?
If you would like to have a copy of your records, the Trust asks that you complete the subject access request form below. To ensure that the Trust is satisfied that they know the identity of the requester (or the person the request is made on behalf of) personal identification will be required as part of the application process.
| Acceptable documentation | Type |
| Passport | Any current and valid passport |
| Biometric residence permit | UK |
| Current driving licence (full or provisional) | All countries outside the EU (excluding Isle of Man and Channel Islands) |
| HM Forces ID card | UK |
Accessing the records of a deceased person
If an individual is deceased, there is still a duty of confidentiality to that person.
In accordance with the Access to Health Records Act (AHRA) 1990 only the Personal Representative or someone who has a claim arising out of the patient’s death is legally entitled to apply for disclosure of any health records which may support a claim.
The Personal Representative is the Executor of the Will or someone who has been granted probate. Evidence of this status must be enclosed with the application, for example, a copy of the will/ probate documents.
Only records produced from 1st November 1991 will be provided. AHRA provides us with 40 days to comply with your request.
If an individual is requesting access to records on the basis that they have a claim arising out of the patient’s death, proof is required. Evidence could be a solicitor’s letter, insurance claim or letter, evidence of genetic problem or a doctor’s letter to support the request.
At all other times a voluntary disclosure will be considered by the trust providing there is a valid reason to support the application. A statement must be enclosed with the application.
Will I be charged a fee?
You will not be charged for a copy of your records. However, the trust can charge a ‘reasonable fee’ when a request is manifestly unfounded or excessive, particularly if it is repetitive. We may also charge a reasonable fee to comply with requests for further copies of the same information. The fee would be based on the administrative cost of providing the information.
Please be advised that you should receive a response within 1 month of the receipt of your application.
