Freedom of Information
What is FOI?
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOI) provides people with a legal ‘right to know’. It recognises that as a member of the public, you have the right to know how public services such as the NHS are organised and run. The Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) enables access to environmental information in the same way as FOI.
The FOI Act and EIR gives people a right to obtain official information held by the Manchester Clinical Commissioning Groups unless the organisations can show there is a good reason for the information to be withheld. Much of this information - such as minutes of meetings, board papers and policies - is already available on our website or Publication Scheme.
How do I request information?
If you are not able to find the information you are looking for on our publication scheme you can submit a request directly to the CCGs. In this case please fill in the FOI request form. You can also use this form to request informaiton under the EIR.
The Manchester Clinical Commissioning Groups have to take into account any possible exemptions to the right to know before deciding what information can be released. If we are unable to release some or all of the information your request, we will explain this to you Generally, you will be provided you with a response within 20 working days from receipt of your request.
Additional information and guidance about accessing official information and about either the Freedom of Information Act or the Environmental Information Regulations is also available from the Information Commissioner’s Office. The Commissioner is the person responsible for enforcing compliance with both FOI and EIR in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Information Commissioner
Wycliffe House
Water Lane
Wilmslow
Cheshire
SK9 5AF
Telephone: 08456 30 60 60 or 01625 54 57 45
www.ico.gov.uk