Freedom of Information

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 provides a right of access to recorded information held by public authorities and sets out exemptions to that right of access for example, if the information is confidential.

Publication Scheme

Under the Act public authorities must have a publication scheme setting out what types of information are routinely made available to the public such as Board papers, Guidance to the NHS, committee papers, press releases and many others and where this information can be obtained.

Responding to requests

Public authorities have a legal obligation to respond to requests for information. Anyone considering making a request for information is advised to first see if the information is available via the publication scheme or published on the NICE website.

If you are unable to find the information you require you can put your request in writing and send it to us by email to nice@nice.org.uk or by post to: NICE, Level 1, City Tower, Piccadilly Plaza, Manchester, M14DB.

Any request for information must meet the following criteria:

1. It must be in writing (including email)

2. It must include a contact name and address of the applicant

3. It must describe the information requested

Please explain as clearly as you can what information you would like as this will help us to locate the information and process your request quickly and efficiently.

NICE will respond to requests for information within 20 working days starting from the day following receipt of the request. If the response is likely to take longer than this NICE will keep you informed of progress.

If you have any queries about how to submit a request under the Freedom of Information Act please contact the Communications Enquiry Handling team at the address above.

Charging

NICE does not currently charge for responding to Freedom of Information requests but this will be kept under review.

Copyright

Information disclosed under the Freedom of Information Act is still protected by copyright laws. The disclosure does not give the applicant the right to breach the copyright of the copyright holder.

What to do if you are unhappy with our response

If you are unhappy with our response you can request an internal review of our decision in accordance with our complaints policy. Your complaint should be sent to:

Associate Director, Corporate Office
NICE
1st Floor
10 Spring Gardens
London
SW1A 2BU

If you are unhappy with the outcome of the internal review you can request a review by the Information Commissioner.