Freedom of Information

Submitting a request

I strongly recommend that requests for information from public authorities are made via the WhatDoTheyKnow website - this allows others to share any information you receive. My own requests using the site can be found here.

You can download a copy of the presentation above in PowerPoint here [PPT, 957K]and also the following sample letters

Sample Freedom of Information request letter [Word, 14K]
Sample Freedom of Information appeal letter [Word, 14K]

Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)

Website: www.ico.gov.uk
Postal address: Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow SK9 5AF
Helpline 0303 123 1113

Useful guidance
Guidance on how to make a request [PDF]
Guidance on Fees [PDF]
Information on Exemptions under the Act [HTML]

Making a complaint to the Information Commissioner

Guidance on making a complaint is available here. You can make a complaint if a public authority has refused or mishandled your information request, in two ways:

By email:, if all your supporting evidence is available electronically. This is why submitting FoI requests using WhatDoTheyKnow is so helpful, as you can include links to your online request.

Download the Freedom of Information Act complaints form [Word]

1. Complete and save the form to your computer.
2. Open a new email, with 'Complaint to the ICO' in the subject line.
3. Attach this form and any other documents you wish to send us.
4. Send to casework@ico.gsi.gov.uk

By post, if your supporting evidence is in hard copy.

Download the Freedom of Information Act complaints form, print it out and post it to the ICO with your supporting evidence. Send to the Customer Services Team at the address above.