Data Protection

[bazwillrun]

I have asked for the address of someone in a small athletics club (around 200 members) I belong to, as I need to post something to them.

The person knows me through the club, but is rarely at the club. I know the road but not the number as some time ago I dropped something off there but I cant recall it.

Is the clubs database covered by the Data Protection Act or can the membership person let me have the address ?

[murraymints]

No they can't use their computer records to find out and tell....but if other members just happen to know ok

[murraymints]

Or look on bt directory...or electoral roll held in library...

[bazwillrun]

Thanks, thats roughly what I thought the case to be.

They only live about 2 miles away, so I may just drive down the road and see if I can recall which house, trouble is they are a fairly recent new build development and all look virtually identical and last time I was there it was night time.

Could just knock on a couple of doors and ask, nothing to lose, not even that important

[murraymints]

Or ask the postie !

[Buenchico]

The Data Protection Act isn't necessarily about banning the transmission of information; it's also an enabling tool. If the club has registered under the Act, then the club's officials can lawfully use the information for whatever purposes are listed within that registration. It may be that your purpose is covered. (For instance, the registration might refer to 'enabling communication between club members').

If it's not covered, the club secretary should use his discretion. If he knows that what you're trying to post is something that the intended recipient is desperate to receive, then he should use his common sense and provide you with the address. If he's in doubt then he should offer to phone the member to seek his permission to pass on the address.

Alternatively, as MM has suggested, try the Phone Book (or BT's online directory of residential numbers) first or check the electoral roll at your local council office (or possibly at a library).

[Buenchico]

Crossed posts!

Knocking on doors is probably the best solution in your case.

[bednobs]

or ask the member ship sec to post it on your behalf

[flicrat]

I agree with bednobs. Give the Secretary the stamped envelope with the person's name and ask if they would mind addressing it and posting with their other mail.