Using Our Work

The Lid Files is an independent investigative publication committed to uncovering waste, opacity, and the consequences of public decision-making in Scotland.

Our work is original, FOI-driven, and editorially independent. We welcome others using our findings to raise awareness or advance public understanding — but we ask that the following conditions be respected.

Attribution Required

If you quote, cite, or reference any of our articles or findings, you must credit The Lid Files and the original author William MacLean. Please also include a link to the original article on our Substack or main website.

Republication and Media Use

If you wish to republish an article, excerpt a large portion, or use original charts, graphics or datasets, please contact us first at editor@lidfiles.org. We usually approve non-commercial use with credit, but we like to keep track of where our work appears.

For Campaigners, Councillors, or Researchers

You are welcome to reference our work in briefings, council meetings, committee papers, or academic research, provided attribution is made. We are also happy to supply supporting data on request where possible.

Don’t Pass It Off As Yours

Please don’t repackage our original reporting as your own. If you’re inspired by a piece and want to write a follow-up, do — but credit the source.

Questions or Requests?

For all press or reuse queries, please contact William MacLean at editor@lidfiles.org. We want our work to go far, but we also want it respected.