Freedom of Information

How much does it cost?

The information is free unless otherwise indicated. Where information is provided at cost, you will be informed of any costs.

What are the timescales for responding to a request for information?

Your main obligation under the Act is to respond to requests promptly, with a time limit acting as the longest time you can take. Under the Act, most public authorities may take up to 20 working days to respond, counting the first working day after the request is received as the first day. For schools, the standard time limit is 20 school days, or 60 working days if this is shorter.

Working day means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday, or public holidays and bank holidays; this may or may not be the same as the days you are open for business or staff are in work.

The time allowed for complying with a request starts when your organisation receives it, not when it reaches the freedom of information officer or other relevant member of staff.

Certain circumstances (explained in this guidance and in When can we refuse a request?) may allow you extra time. However, in all cases you must give the requester a written response within the standard time limit for compliance.

Your Rights to Information

The Freedom of Information (FOI) Act was passed on 30 November 2000. It gives a general right of access to all types of recorded information held by public authorities, with full access granted in January 2005. The Act sets out exemptions to that right and places certain obligations on public authorities.

We are only able to provide information that we hold, and you will be informed if this is the case.

The surgery is registered with the Data Protection Agency as appropriate and whilst maintaining high standards to protect patient confidentiality, patients have a right to look at their own medical records. For any further information please contact the Practice Manager or follow this link www.ico.org.uk/for-organisations/guide-to-freedom-of-information/. 

Under the Data Protection Act 1998, you are also entitled to access your clinical records or any other personal information held about you and you can contact any practice where your records are held to do this.

If you have any comments about the Operation of the Publication Scheme, or how we have dealt with your request for information from the scheme, please write to: Church Street Partnership, 30a Church Street, Bishop’s Stortford, Herts, CM23 2LE

If you wish to make a Freedom of Information Request, this must be in writing, with your full name and a correspondence address.

ICO Registration number: Z7368916