University of Leeds statement: Wealth screening
Donations from alumni and others enable research to tackle life-threatening illnesses and other problems facing society, and assists students from a broader range of backgrounds to go to University. In common with others in the charity sector, we used wealth screening to identify alumni who could potentially offer significant gifts.
Following some concerns about wealth screening companies, below are statements from the University of Leeds and the Russell Group, which represents the interests of 24 leading research-intensive universities.
A spokesperson from the University of Leeds said:
“In common with others in the charity sector, we used wealth screening to identify alumni who could potentially offer significant gifts, which support activity such as research to tackle life-threatening illnesses.
“After public concern about wealth screening emerged, and following guidance issued by the ICO, we updated our privacy notice in December 2016 to specifically reference wealth screening. We notified alumni and made clear how they could opt out, and did so again recently.”
A spokesman for the Russell Group said:
“The generosity of alumni helps fund everything from bursaries for disadvantaged students to new academic facilities which benefit students directly. From cancer therapies to conflict resolution, alumni donations have helped our universities invest in cutting-edge research that is changing the world for the better.
“Philanthropy is helping widen access to higher education and improve the learning experience universities are able to provide for students.
“All Russell Group universities in England and Wales are registered with the Fundraising Regulator and when there are changes in guidance on best practice they will follow these closely.
"Our members are hugely grateful for the ongoing commitment to higher education shown by so many Russell Group alumni and take their privacy very seriously.”
For Alumni
Our privacy Notice explains how we use your data, what we use it for, how we keep it safe and private and how to change your preferences.
To view our privacy notice visit alumni.leeds.ac.uk/privacy