Family Resources Survey: privacy notice

In line with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), there are certain things that we need to let you, a research participant of the Family Resources Survey, know about how your information will be processed. In this privacy notice, we explain the legal basis for data processing, who will have access to your personal data ¹ , how your data will be used, stored and deleted and who you can contact with a query or a complaint.

What is the legal basis for processing my data?

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is the data controller for this project. This means that they are responsible for deciding the purpose and legal basis for processing data. For this project, the legal basis for processing data under the Data Protection Act (2018) and GDPR is the performance of a task carried out in the public interest.

You can find out more about how your data will be used at:  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/frs. 

The National Centre for Social Research (NatCen) is a data processor for this project carrying out work on behalf of the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Who will have access to my personal data?

NatCen are carrying out this study and will have access to information about your address and any information you provide to our survey interviewers for this purpose.  

We will share your address with one of our approved print suppliers in order to send letters inviting you to take part. Approved suppliers are compliant with all of NatCen’s information security policies and data protection legislation.

DWP and ONS will have access to your personal details as the commissioners of this study. They will use the data you provide for research purposes only.

How will my survey answers be treated?

Your answers will be combined with those of others who take part and presented anonymously in research reports. Your responses may be combined, for research and statistical purposes only, with information held by DWP and other approved government departments/organisations. Anonymised survey information is provided to other approved organisations for statistical purposes only.

All statistics produced are subject to the Code of Practice for Statistics and the same standards of protection are applied to your information at all times.

Who can I contact with a query or a complaint?

If you have any questions about how your data will be used, please contact DWP.

Family Resources Survey
Surveys Branch
Department for Work and Pensions
6th Floor
Caxton House
Tothill Street
London, SW1H 9NA

Email: team.frs@dwp.gov.uk. 

Under GDPR, you have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office at ico.org.uk or phone 0303 123 1113 for more information.