How to make an FOI request

We may refuse your request if:

• We cannot identify the information and require further clarification from you.
• A specific exemption applies.
• The cost of complying exceeds the set limit.
• We think your request is vexatious (that is specifically being pressed on to cause an act of harassment, annoyance, frustration, worry, or even bring financial cost)
• We have already provided you with similar information. 

If the information is covered by the Publication Scheme but cannot be downloaded from our website, it should be provided without delay.

If you make a formal request in writing or by email, the trust has up to 20 working days to respond to you. On some occasions, we may require further information or clarification from you.

At that point, the clock will stop until you reply to us.

The purpose of our publication scheme is to make the maximum amount of information readily available at a minimum cost to the public. Material which is published and accessed on our website will be provided free of charge. You may require a hard copy of information or transfer of information onto portable media. It will be unusual for us to make a charge to you but any made will be justified and transparent and kept to a minimum and may include the following costs:

• Photocopying
• Postage and packaging
• The costs directly incurred as a result of viewing information

If a charge is to be made, confirmation of the payment due will be given before the information is provided. Payment will be requested prior to provision of the information.

You have the right to make a complaint to the trust if you feel that we have not handled your request adequately. For example:

• If we have failed to respond to your request within the 20 working days.
• If you feel that we have used an exemption inappropriately.
• If we’re not publishing information in accordance with the Publication Scheme.

All appeals should be addressed to the Legal Services Manager in writing to the following address:

The Information Governance Department
Macclesfield District General Hospital
2^nd Floor New Alderley House
Victoria Road
Macclesfield
Cheshire
SK10 3BL

We aim to complete a review of any appeal within 20 working days. In exceptional cases, we may require additional time to consider your case. In these cases we will provide you with an anticipated response date.