Making a Freedom of Information request

How do I make a request for information?

If the information you require is listed in the Publication Scheme but not available for download or if you require information which is not available through the Publication Scheme, you should make a written request to the Freedom of Information Office at the address shown below:

The trust must comply to any requests we receive and an acknowledgement of your request must be sent to you.  We will then have 20 working days on receipt of your request to provide the information where applicable.

We ask that you provide the following information when sending your request:

Will I always get what I ask for?

The Trust strives to be open and is normally able to satisfy requests in full.  However the right of access is not absolute and some requests may have to be refused, for example where disclosure would breach confidentiality or put people in danger.  Decisions will be made subject to the law and taking into account public interest.  You as the applicant will have the right of appeal.

How much does it cost?

Information on the Publication Scheme can be downloaded free of charge.  If the information is not on the website but can be made available easily it will be provided, free of charge, within the 20 working days required by the Act.

However under Section 12 of the FOI Act 2000, the trust can charge a fee if it is estimated that the costs for searching for the information will exceed £450.  This figure is calculated on 2 1/2 working days at £25.00 per hour.  If this occurs the applicant will be notified of the charge.  No information will be provided until the charge has been paid.

What if I have a complaint?

If you are unhappy with the response you receive, you must first complain to the trust by contacting:

Who has copyright?

The material available through this Publication Scheme is subject to Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust’s copyright unless otherwise indicated.  Unless expressly indicated on the material to the contrary, it may be reproduced free of charge in any format or medium, provided it is reproduced accurately and not used in a misleading manner.  Where any of the copyright items in this Scheme are being re-published or copied to others, you must identify the source of the material and acknowledge the copyright status.

Permission to reproduce material does not extend to any material accessed through the Publication Scheme that is the copyright of third parties.  You must obtain authorisation to reproduce such material from the copyright holders concerned.

Where can I find out more?

The Office of the Information Commissioner, which oversees compliance with Freedom of Information in England, publishes much useful guidance on its website.  This guidance includes information on how to make a request, what exemptions exist and may be used under the FOI Act 2000.