Purpose
This policy sets out how New Collegiate Medial Centre responds to request under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. It ensures transparency, promotes public trust, and supports legal compliance.
Scope
This policy applies to all practice staff involved in handling or responding to FOI requests. It covers request for non-personal information held by the practice about how services are managed, funded, or operated.
What is the Freedom of Information Act?
The FOI Act gives any person the right to request recorded information help by public authorities, including GP practice, unless an exemption applies.
What can be requested?
Examples of information that can be requested include:
- Staffing structures
- Policies and procedures
- Financial information
- Contractual arrangements
- Performance data
Requests must be in writing and include the requesters name and a contact address (email or postal).
Information not covered
Requests for personal medical records are dealt with under the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2028, via a Subject Access Request (SAR). Thes are not FOI requests.
How to make a request
FOI request must be made in writing (email or letter) and should be sent to:
Ashley Morgan-Phillips
Office Manager
New Collegiate Medical Centre
407 Cheetham Hill Road, Manchester, M9 0DA
Or contact the surgery for further information: 0161 205 4364
Handling FOI Requests
- All FOI request are logged in the FOI register
- The Office Manager acknowledges receipt within 5 working days
- A full response is issued within 20 working days
- Fi clarification is needed, the 20-day clock pauses until clarified
- Information is provided in a format requested by the individual where possible (e.g. email or post)
Exemptions
Some information may be exempt from disclosure under the FOI Act, including:
- Personal data (Section 40)
- Commercial sensitivity (Section 43)
- Information already available elsewhere (Section 21)
- Information not held by the practice
If an exemption is applied, this will be explained in the response.
Charges
Most FOI responses are free of charge. However, we may charge for photocopying, postage, or if the request exceeds the cost limit set by the ICO (£450). In these cases, we will notify the requester in writing.
Complaints and Appeals
If a requester is unhappy with the outcome of their FOI request, they can request an internal review by writing to the Office Manager. If still dissatisfied. They may contact the Information Commissioners Office (ICO):
Information Commissioners Office
Wycliffe House
Water Lane
Wilmslow
Cheshire
SK9 5AF
Website: www.ico.org.uk
Helpline: 03031231113
Retention
FOI requests and responses are retained for 3 years
Responsibility
The Office Manager is responsible for ensuring this policy is followed ad that FOI requests are managed lawfully and in a timely manner.