Freedom Of Information - Introduction
Introduction
Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, public authorities have to produce a Publication Scheme. Details of the model publication scheme 2009 can be found at the Information Commissioners website. This will provide information on a) Generic publications scheme for all public authorities, b) sector specific guidance on publication schemes and the definitions document.
We are committed to delivering an open and transparent service whenever possible and it is our intention to publish information in our Publication Scheme that the public have an interest in viewing. However, as we are committed to protecting the communities we serve, preventing and detecting crime, it must be recognised that certain information, in the public interest should not be disclosed. Information concerning ongoing investigations, investigative methods, intelligence and the use of related operational techniques must be protected - they are central to the maintenance of a safe and just society. In this respect, Bedfordshire Police will, when appropriate, apply reasonable consideration of the exemptions afforded under the Freedom of Information Act, particularly;
- Section 30 Investigation and proceedings conducted by public authorities,
- Section 31 Law enforcement and Section
- 41 Information provided in confidence.
Responsibility for maintaining the Publication Scheme for Bedfordshire Police is within our Information Governance Unit, Bedfordshire Police HQ, Woburn Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK43 9AX, telephone 01234 842213/2355, fax 01234 846456.
The generic publication scheme for all public authorities, the sector specific guidance and the definitions document can all be found at: http://www.ico.gov.uk/Home/what_we_cover/freedom_of_information/publication_schemes.aspx
The ACPO Guide for published information provides details of what information Bedfordshire Police will be publishing and where it can be found.
Click here to view the guide
Will I be able to obtain personal information about myself under the Act?
Requests for personal information will be dealt with under the Data Protection Act.
Should you wish to know what information (if any) Bedfordshire Police holds about you, you must complete a Subject Access Form.
Payment of a £10.00 fee and proof of identification must accompany a completed application form which is available from:
Information Governance Unit,
Bedfordshire Police HQ,
Woburn Road,
Kempston,
Bedfordshire
MK43 9AX.
Telephone 01234 842547
Aim of the Scheme
The aim of the Publication Scheme is to set out:
- What information Bedfordshire Police publishes or intends to publish as a matter of course
- How we will publish this information
- Whether the information will be available free of charge or on payment.
Understanding our Abbreviations
As a large organisation we often use abbreviations within our textual information.
To assist the reader with interpreting these an explanatory abbreviations list is included.
