General Right of Access
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 is retrospective and you have a general right of access to recorded information held by us. You also have a right to request this information.
Data Protection and Freedom of Information
If the information we hold is personal, then the Data Protection Act 1998 will apply and a subject access request should be made. If the information is not personal, then the Freedom of Information Act 2000 will apply.
Making a Request
Freedom of Information requests must be made in writing - this includes emails.
The request must state:
- Name
- Address for correspondence
- Specific description of the information requested
Anyone, anywhere in the world can make a request. For example:
- Journalists
- Politicians
- Community Groups
- Companies
- Individuals
Once a record has been requested, it cannot be destroyed. It is a criminal offence to amend, erase or destroy information once a request is received.
Transferring Requests
If we receive a request for information we do not have, we must let you know that we do not have the information. If we did have it but have permanently destroyed it, we must also let you know. If we know another public body that may have the information, then we will either refer your request to the public body or inform you of their details so you can make the request directly.
Before making a request to us for information, please check our Freedom of Information Publication Scheme (PDF, 166k), to make sure that the information you require is not already listed.
Information published on our Publication Scheme is exempt under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. We therefore do not have to deal with your request for information.
To make a request for information that is not on the Publication Scheme, you must provide the following:
- A contact name
- A contact address
- Your request MUST be specific
If your request is not specific and we are unable to find the information requested, we will have to write to you requesting further information. Please therefore help us to find the information requested the first time by being clear and precise.
Waiting Time
We have 20 working days to deal with your request. Please do not contact us during this period, unless you have further information to add to your request which will help us to find the information requested.
We will usually provide the information requested free of charge. However, where a charge is made you will be notified of the amount payable in writing.
There may also be a charge for photocopying, postage, packaging etc.
To make a request by email contact: information.governance@newham.gov.uk