A Freedom of Information (FOI) request in the UK allows individuals or organizations to request access to information held by public authorities. This right is granted under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (for England, Wales, and Northern Ireland) and the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 (for Scotland).

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Key Points About FOI Requests:

 

Who Can Make a Request?

 

Anyone, anywhere in the world, can submit an FOI request.

What Information Can Be Requested?
You can ask for any recorded information held by a public authority, including reports, emails, meeting minutes, and policies. However, some information may be exempt due to security, confidentiality, or personal data protections.

Who Must Respond?
Public authorities such as:

Government departments

Local councils

NHS bodies

Police forces

Schools and universities

Publicly funded organizations

 

How to Make a Request?

 

Requests must be in writing (email, letter, or online form).

They must include your name, contact details, and a clear description of the information you want.

Response Time?
Authorities must respond within a calendar month.

 

Possible Outcomes:

 

Full disclosure of the requested information

Partial disclosure with redactions (if certain exemptions apply)

Refusal, citing specific exemptions (e.g., national security, personal data protection, commercial interests)

 

What If the Request Is Refused?

 

You can request an internal review by the authority.

If still unsatisfied, you can complain to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).

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More information coming soon