Freedom of Information

Since March 2020 we have been subject to the Freedom of Information Act (2000) and the provisions of the Environmental Information Regulations (2004). This means that anyone has a right to request recorded information that we hold. In some case we won’t be able to provide information depending on whether it is exempt under the FOI Act or if it means Northern breaches its GDPR obligations. The exemptions may include whether the information:

• would be prejudicial to the commercial interests of Northern or any third party
• was provided to us in confidence
• is personal information about other individuals
• is intended for publication in the future
• would endanger the health or safety of Northern staff or the public
• would inhibit the free and frank provision of advice or exchange of views

We may also refuse requests if the information is reasonably accessible by other means or where the cost of locating and retrieving the information would exceed £450 (equivalent to 18 hours work set at £25 per hour).

To make a Freedom of Information request please email us at [email protected]. We will endeavour to provide you with a response within 20 working days.