About the YJB
Freedom of Information
The Freedom of Information Act gives everyone a right of access to information held by a public authority. Information held by the YJB can be accessed in two ways – by making a specific request in writing or by checking whether a document is already available through the YJB’s publication scheme.
The publication scheme lists the information routinely made available by the YJB and states whether there is a charge applicable. If the information you require is not listed in the publication scheme you can make a separate request.
Click here to access the YJB’s publication scheme [opens in new window, 62.6Kb PDF].
Making a request in writing
Requests for information must be made in writing, which includes email. When requesting information please make sure you provide full contact details as this will enable us to help you as fully as possible.
Written requests should be addressed to:
Freedom of Information Team
Youth Justice Board
11 Carteret Street
London
SW1H 9DL
Alternatively you can e-mail: enquiries@yjb.gov.uk.
Timescale
The YJB aims to respond to written requests for information within 20 working days. We will also endeavour to provide advice to people who have made, or are thinking of making, a request.
Limits of disclosure
The YJB will disclose information wherever possible. However, in certain limited circumstances, it will be necessary to preserve confidentiality where it is not in the public interest to disclose. There are 23 exemptions to disclosure which are set out in Part II of the Freedom of Information Act [opens in new window].
Examples of exemptions include:
- information that would prejudice international relations
- commercially sensitive information
- information provided in confidence
- personal data about other people that would breach the Data Protection Act [opens in new window].
If a request for information is refused, the YJB will specify which exemption is being claimed and why. All requests will be carefully considered on their own merits and with close regard to the public interest. In some instances consideration of the public interest may take longer than the 20 days. In such cases we will provide an estimate of how long it will take.
Fees
Details of the latest government charging regulations are outlined on the Department for Constitutional Affairs website [opens in new window]. If the YJB charges a fee we will inform the applicant in writing. The 20 day target for responding to Freedom of Information requests will be put on hold until the fee is paid. If the fee is not paid within three months it is assumed the applicant no longer wants the information.