How to Make a Freedom of Information Request in the UK
Any member of the public can request information from public bodies under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. This guide explains how to make an effective request and what to do if it is refused.
Who is subject to FOIA?
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 applies to public authorities: central government departments, local councils, NHS trusts, schools, universities, police forces, courts, and publicly owned companies. Scotland has its own FOI Act 2002.
What you can request
Any recorded information — emails, reports, meeting minutes, contracts, expenditure data, policies, correspondence. You do not need to give a reason.
How to write an effective request
- —Be specific — describe the information clearly, with relevant dates and departments
- —Keep the scope reasonable — requests costing more than 18 hours of officer time can be refused
- —State your preferred format — electronic, specific file type, or post
The authority’s obligations
Must respond within 20 working days. Must provide the information, confirm they do not hold it, or cite a specific exemption. Qualified exemptions are subject to a public interest test.
Common exemptions
- —National security and defence
- —Ongoing investigations or proceedings
- —Commercially sensitive third-party information
- —Personal data of individuals (use a SAR instead)
- —Internal deliberations prior to a policy decision — subject to public interest test
If refused
- —Request an internal review from the authority
- —Complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office at ico.org.uk
- —Appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Information Rights) if you disagree with the ICO’s decision
Environmental information
For environmental information (air, water, soil, land, built environment), use the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 (EIR). The EIR has a stronger presumption in favour of disclosure.