Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the purpose of the Freedom of Information Act?

The Freedom of Information Act provides a wide-ranging right of access to information held by an organisation in the public sector, for example NHS Pensions, can be accessed; in order to promote greater openness, provide increased transparency of decision-making and to build public trust and confidence.

However, the request for information will be balanced against the need to ensure the confidentiality of some information relating to areas such as, personal privacy, commercial sensitivity and where disclosure would not be in the public interest.

2. Who can request Information?

Anyone can request information under the Act, regardless of age, nationality or location.

3.How do I make an Information Request?

The Act requires that all requests:

1. Are in writing (this does include emails)
2. state clearly what information is required
3. state the name of the applicant, and an address for correspondence

4.Who do I send my request to?

Any requests under the Freedom of Information Act for the NHS Pensions can be addressed to: -

Information Governance Manager
NHS Business Services Authority
Bridge House
152 Pilgrim Street
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE1 6SN

Telephone: 0191 2035484

5. When should I expect a reply?

The NHS Pensions has 20 working days to respond to the request from the date of receipt.

6. What if you don’t understand my request?

If we don't understand your request, we will contact you to clarify what information you are looking for.

7. What format is the information supplied in?

You may request that the information be supplied in any form. However, we may take into account the cost of supplying the information in this form before complying with your request.

In particular, you may ask for information in permanent form, in summary form, or for permission to inspect records containing the information.

8. How much does it cost?

Generally, most requests will be free of charge, although there may be a charge for the cost of photocopying and postage etc.

9. Who do I contact if I want to appeal against the information supplied?

If you are not satisfied with how we dealt with your request there is an appeal process.

You can write in to the ‘Disputes Manager’ at the following address to make an appeal, which will initially be dealt with by the Internal Complaints procedure: -