The Freedom of Information Act gives a general right of access to all types of official information held by public authorities. The Act also explains the reasons why certain information may not be released and places certain obligations on the Council.

A 'public authority' as defined in the Act, includes, but is not restricted to, central and local government, the police, the health service and schools, colleges and universities.

Anybody can make a request to a public authority for information, and they must be informed if:

• The public authority holds that information, and

• Must be supplied with that information, (subject to exemptions)

Individuals already have the right of access to their own information under the Data Protection Act 1998. As far as public authorities are concerned, the Freedom of Information Act will extend this right to allow the public access to all types of information held by the Council.

Every public authority is required to produce and maintain a Publication Scheme setting out the different types of information it holds, where and how the public can access the information and whether a charge will be made for the information.

You can view an information leaflet (available for download on the right hand side of this webpage) explaining about the Freedom of Information Act and how to submit an information request.

The Council's Publication Scheme is currently being reviewed to ensure that it accurately reflects the requirements of customers and our services. The new version will be posted on this site in due course.

However, please Click here to see Middlesbrough Borough Council's current publication scheme.

The purpose of a scheme 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.

Frequently asked questions

Please see the frequently asked questions document in the downloads section

More information on the Freedom of Information Act can be found on the following websites

• Department for Constitutional Affairs

• Information Commissioner

Middlesbrough Council also maintain a disclosure log. This log documents information released under the Freedom of Information legislation. In the log you will be able to see the date the information was disclosed, the request for that information, and then what information Middlesbrough Council disclosed.

To view the disclosure log please select the "Disclosure Log" link in the green "On this site" box to the right.

Making a request

There are several ways to request information under the freedom of information act:

• Using the online request form

• Download a request form from the downloads section. Once complete please send to this address:

Members' Office,
PO Box 99A,
Town Hall,
Middlesbrough,
TS1 2QQ

• Or send an email to foi@middlesbrough.gov.uk

Responsible Officer Contact Information

Freedom of Information Officer
Members' Office,
PO Box 99A,
Town Hall,
Middlesbrough,
TS1 2QQ

Email: foi@middlesbrough.gov.uk
Phone: 01642 729696
Fax: 01642 729882