Freedom of Information Policy
1. Introduction
This policy outlines the procedures and guidelines for accessing public records held by Ty Elli Group Practice in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (the Act). Our commitment is to provide transparency and promote accountability while respecting privacy and confidentiality obligations.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all recorded information held by Ty Elli Group Practice regardless of how they were created or received.
This can include
- Fees and Charges
- Format of the publication scheme
- Information held by the practice (with some exceptions)
- How information requests are processed
- Details of the practice, structure and relationship to the NHS
- Services provided
- Financial and funding information
Complaints, policies and procedures. - General policies and procedures
Certain information such as individual/health/clinical records are not available under the legislation and operate under the Data Protection Act.
3. Making A Request
- Identification of Information: Requestors should identify the information they seek as clearly and specifically as possible. Assistance will be provided by Ty Elli Group Practice to clarify ambiguous requests.
- Submitting Requests: Requests must be made in writing, including email, with the requester’s name and a return address for correspondence.
- Charges: A fee may be charged for processing requests. Details of any applicable charges will be provided in advance and are also available in the publication scheme document which can be obtained from Reception.
4. Processing Requests
- Acknowledgement: Ty Elli Group Practice will acknowledge receipt of each request promptly.
- Time Limit: Responses will be provided within 20 working days of receipt. If an extension is necessary, the requester will be informed of the reasons and the expected response time.
- Exemptions: Some information may be exempt under the Act. If a request is denied or partially denied, the reasons for the decision, including specific exemptions applied, will be explained.
- Advice and Assistance: Ty Elli Group Practice is committed to providing advice and assistance to requesters throughout the process.
5. Review and Appeals
- Internal Review: If a requester is dissatisfied with the handling of their request or the decision made, they may request an internal review. The review procedure will be explained in the response to the initial request.
- Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO): Following an internal review, if the requester remains unsatisfied, they may appeal to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
6. Record Keeping
Ty Elli Group Practice will maintain records of all FOI requests received, including the date of receipt, description of the request, date of response, and details of the decision made and any exemptions applied.
7. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect any changes in legislation or internal procedures.
