Freedom of Information refers to the statutory right of members of the public to request access to recorded information held by public authorities and public healthcare bodies in the UK under the Freedom of Information Act 2000.
1. Core Principles of Freedom of Information
The FOIA promotes public openness, transparency, and accountability across government departments, NHS England, local health authorities, and commissioned service providers.
Right to Request
Any individual, regardless of location or nationality, can submit a written FOI request.
20 Working Days
Public authorities must acknowledge and respond to requests within 20 working days.
Recorded Data
Applies to official recorded information including documents, reports, emails, and datasets.
ICO Oversight
Appeals can be lodged with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) if unsatisfied.
2. Key Statutory Elements
- Public Authorities Covered: NHS Trusts, Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), local councils, police forces, and government departments.
- Environmental Information Regulations 2004 (EIR): Specific rules covering requests for public environmental data.
- Exemptions & Confidentiality: Certain information is exempt from disclosure, including personal data protected by UK GDPR, trade secrets, national security, or commercial sensitivity.
FOI requests cannot be used to request medical records or personal health histories. Requests for personal health data must be submitted as a Subject Access Request (SAR) under the Data Protection Act 2018.
3. Submitting an FOI Inquiry
To submit a formal Freedom of Information request regarding NHS commissioned services or Sonar Informatics LTD governance procedures, please write to our governance desk at foi@sonarhealth.org specifying your name, contact details, and a clear description of the requested information.