Freedom of Information Publication Scheme for Boots UK Ltd England and Wales

Guide to information provided by pharmacists under the model publication scheme

Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 all public authorities are required to have and operate a publication scheme approved by the Information Commissioner. Those providing pharmaceutical services under contract to the NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are public authorities in respect of information relating to those services.

It is the intention of the Information Commissioner that all public authorities should adopt and operate the one model scheme that has been approved. This is a very general scheme based on the principal that all public authorities need to recognise the public interest in the transparency of the services provided for and paid for by the general public. It is a commitment to make information easily available to the public.

Note: The scheme is only for information held as a public authority and does not include any information that is held for other purposes or would be exempt from release.

The scheme requires three documents to be considered:

• the model scheme itself;
• our guidance on adopting and operating the scheme; and,
• a guide provided by the public authority indicating what information will be provided, how it will be provided and whether any charge will be made for its provision.

To assist pharmacists we have produced the outline of a guide for their use. They should consider expanding elements of it to provide greater explanation and additional information where this can be done. For example, if there are specific plans for the provision of NHS services, these could be detailed. It is not necessary to submit the guide completed by the firm or practice for approval.

We recognise that it is unlikely that pharmacists are going to have registers available for public inspection and while this remains the case 'None Held' can be entered in this section. Under policies and procedures we have listed the policies we would expect pharmacists to have. Again if this is not the case, 'Not held' can be entered in the relevant part. Any additional policies should also be listed.

Fees should be requested only where this is done in accordance with our guidance.

Information available from Boots UK Limited under the Freedom of Information Act model publication scheme

Information covered by this scheme is only about the pharmaceutical services we provide under contract to the National Health Service.