The Freedom of Information Act 2000

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 gives members of the public the right to access official information held by public bodies. Information is made available via Publication Schemes and by requests under the Act.

Publication Schemes

Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, public authorities must make available a Publication Scheme. A Publication Scheme is a guide to information that is made available routinely. Publication Schemes must show the data format and any applicable charges.  Click here to view or download our Publication Scheme.

General right of access

Anyone can make a request for information held by public authorities. Requests must be made in writing or by email and must include your name and a return address. Click here to view or download our sample letters.

Exemptions

Some information may not be available to the public as there are several grounds for exemption under the Act. Most of these exemptions are subject to the application of a Public Interest Test which is applied by Information Governance. This is a test of whether the public interest in releasing the information is outweighed by the public interest in maintaining the exemption.

Charges

Please click here for a full list of charges.

Further Information

For further information please click here to contact Information Governance.