Freedom of Information Act

The Freedom of Information Act gives a 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.

A 'public authority' is defined in the Act, and includes but is not restricted to central and local government, non-departmental public bodies, the police, the health service and schools, colleges and universities. Any person who makes a request to a public authority for information must be informed whether the public authority holds that information, and subject to exemptions, must be supplied with that information.

Individuals already have the right of access to information about themselves under the Data Protection Act 1998. As far as public authorities are concerned, the Freedom of Information Act extends this right to allow public access to all types of information held.

Every public authority is required to adopt and maintain a publication scheme setting out the classes of information it holds, the manner in which it intends to publish the information, and whether a charge will be made for the information. Its purpose is to ensure a significant amount of information is available, without the need for a specific request. Schemes are intended to encourage organisations to publish more information proactively and to develop a greater culture of openness.

Freedom of Information Act 2000

Stafford Borough Council's Publication Scheme

In accordance with the Freedom of Information Act 2000 we have adopted a Publication Scheme that is approved by the Information Commissioner.

The scheme is based on the Information Commissioner's Model Scheme and further details can be found on the Commissioner's website.

The Council will endeavour to ensure that the majority of information referred to in the Publication Scheme is accessible via its website.  Where information is not available on-line details of how such information can be accessed will be provided.