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Freedom of Information Act Policy
What is the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act?
Freedom of information gives you the legal right to see lots of information that we produce such as:
- Our newsletters
- Information about our performance
- Our policies and procedures
The FoI Act says that we must:
- Deal with requests for information promptly
- Advise and assist you with making requests for information
- Help you understand any information we supply
Everything you can see is listed under the Publication Scheme and most of the information can be found in our webpage. If you're not sure what information we've got on the subject you're interested in, please contact us for advice.
What happens when you ask for information?
We may need to ask you a few questions to make sure we give exactly what you want. You do not have to tell us why you want the information.
If we don't have the information we'll let you know as soon as possible and tell you, if was can, where else you might find it.
If we can, where else you might find it.
If we do have the information you request, we'll send you a copy within 20 working days and, if possible, we will provide it in the format you require, such as your preferred language, audiotape, Braille, by e-mail or on CD.
Do you have to pay for the information?
We will make as much information available as possible free of charge. We will not make a charge for single paper copies of available on our website. Multiple prints may incur a charge for photocopying, postage, etc. You will be informed of any charges at the time of your request.
A charge may be made in the event that a significant amount of time is taken to locate and provide the information relating to your request.
Under the Act, we have provision to refuse you if the cost incurred to meet your request would exceed £450.00 (18 hours in time), but we would give you the opportunity to pay the exact amount.
What information are you entitled to?
Under the legislation, you have the right to access all types of information held by Public Authorities not just personal information.
The Act requires that every Local Authority to adopt and maintain a Publication Scheme; Barnsley Council's can be accessed here.
Personal information falls under the Data Protection Act which restricts its disclosure to anyone else. We would not disclose any personal information in any circumstances where such a disclosure would not be authorised under the Act.
FoI extends these rights to include allowing access to all types of information held by Public Authorities. To facilitate this, we must adopt a Publication Scheme providing information on the different categories of information we hold and advice on who to contact for any information not readily available.
If we don't hold the information, but we know who does, we will either direct you to that other organisation or, with your permission, pass your request on to them.
What information is not available?
Certain information held by us is exempt from the Act. This can be classified as:
- The information would put the health, safety or welfare of our staff or any individual at risk.
- The information could be harmful to commercial interest.
- Making the requested information public would prejudice any investigation being undertaken by Berneslai Homes.
A full list of exemptions is listed in the FoI Act and further details can be provided if requested.
Access to information
Details of different types of information available are contained within the publication scheme. Alternatively, information that is not in our publication scheme can be requested from our Freedom of Information Officer on 01226 772724. We will respond to your request within 20 working days or, if we believe we cannot comply with your request for whatever reason, you will be informed of that fact within 20 working.