Freedom of Information
Introduction
The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 allows any member of the public to request information from a public authority, such as the Scottish Health Council. The Act promotes general access to information by recognising that the public have a right to understand how public authorities are organised, what services they provide, and the reasons behind their business decisions. The Act encourages us to be open and accountable and to organise information so that it is easily accessible to anyone who requests it.
How To Find Information
A lot of information is available online through this website. If you cannot find the information you want on our website, please send our Freedom Of Information officer an email by clicking here.
Alternatively write to us at:
Freedom of Information Officer, Scottish Health Council, National Office, Delta House, 50 West Nile Street, Glasgow, G1 2NP
Exemptions
In some situations, information may be withheld from the public. Such information is said to be exempt, and this will include information that is about to be published, personal information covered by the Data Protection Act, or information that is not in the public interest to be made generally available. If we decide to withhold information, we will give reasons for our decision. You can ask us to review this decision if you do not believe the information should be withheld.
Who Enforces the Act
In Scotland, the Freedom of Information Act is promoted and enforced by the Scottish Information Commissioner. The Commissioner ensures that members of the public get access to the information they are entitled to, and that public authorities respond to requests within 20 working days. If, for any reason, you are dissatisfied with the response to your request you can make an appeal to the Commissioner. After an investigation, the Commissioner will make a decision and determine whether you should receive the information.
Please visit the Scottish Information Commissioner's website to find out more information about your rights under the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 or click here to download a copy of the guide to Freedom of information law in Scotland (PDF version only).