Request Information under the Freedom of Information Act

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 gives a general right of access to all types of recorded information held by public authorities. It sets out exemptions from that right and places a number of obligations on public authorities. 

Anybody who makes a request to a public authority for information must be:

• told if the public authority holds that information; and
• supplied with that information (subject to exemptions)

Every public authority must adopt and maintain a Publication Scheme. This sets out:

• the classes of information it holds;
• how it intends to publish the information;
• if a charge will be made for the information

The Scheme's purpose is to ensure a significant amount of information is available without the need for a specific request. It encourages organisations to publish more information proactively and to develop a greater culture of openness.

We are committed to making ourselves more open and already provide large amounts of information to the public through our website and offices. Some of the information within our Publication Scheme is available as a paper document. Other parts can be downloaded from our website. For more information please email foi@fenland.gov.uk. 

The information we hold that is personal and private to individuals is dealt with under the Data Protection Act 2018 and is not the subject of this Publication Scheme. We will review and update the contents of the Scheme on a regular basis. Our Privacy Statement(s) give more information about how we process your data.  

Requesting information

You can request information from us verbally or in writing.

The easiest way to do this is email foi@fenland.gov.uk with your:

• name
• contact details
• details of your request

You can also write to us at: Member Services, Fenland Hall, County Road, March, Cambs, PE15 8NQ

We will acknowledge your request and give you a reference number. 

Response times

We have 20 working days to respond to requests made under the Freedom of Information Act. If information is easily available we will provide it as soon as possible. 

If we don't have the information

We will let you know if we don't hold the information you've asked for. If we think another organisation holds the information we will let you know who to contact. 

Refusing a request

We will redact any information that is exempt under the Act. If so, we will explain which exemption we are applying and why the information is not being released. 

If you're unhappy with your response

Please contact us if you're unhappy with your response. If you are still unhappy after this you can ask the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) to investigate the matter by:

• visiting the ICO's website
• calling 01625 545700
• writing to them at Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 5AF