Publication schemes
The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 requires all Scottish public authorities to adopt a "publication scheme" which is a document that states what information the authority publishes (or plans to publish). An authority's scheme must also explain how to access the published information and whether it is available free of charge or for a fee. Publication schemes must be approved by the Scottish Information Commissioner. This section of the website contains the Commissioner's guidance to public authorities about adopting and maintaining a publication scheme.
Model and bespoke publication schemes
Authorities can adopt a "model" publication scheme i.e. a scheme which is suitable for adoption by one or more authority of a similar type (e.g. NHS Boards, local authorities), and which has already been approved by the Commissioner. The Commissioner strongly recommends that authorities adopt a model publication scheme rather than producing and adopting a "bespoke" publication scheme of their own design.
If you work for an authority which is due to adopt a new scheme, we recommend you visit how to adopt a scheme and also look at information about the two types of publication scheme in model publication schemes and bespoke publication schemes.
Using publication schemes to access information
If you have visited this page because you would like to know more about accessing information from public authorities, much of this section may also be of interest to you. For example, you can find out what the Commissioner requires authorities to do, and see what model schemes are currently being used by Scottish public authorities. If, however, you would like more advice on your rights to access published information, you may like to visit the "About publication schemes" page in the "Your Rights" section of this website.
Contacting us about publication schemes
The Commissioner's Policy and Information Team is pleased to provide advice about publication schemes. You can contact us on 01334 464610, by email to enquiries@itspublicknowledge.info or by writing to us at the address below: