Requesting information from a public body: freedom of information

Requesting information from a public body: freedom of information guidance for patients and service users

Everyone has a right to request information from public authorities. This is known as a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. This guidance provides information about how requests can be made, responded to, and times when information may be withheld.

Requesting information from a public body: freedom of information guidance for health and care professionals

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) allows people to request any recorded information held by a public body. This guidance is to help health and care organisations deal with Freedom of Information (FOI) requests.

Requesting information from a public body: freedom of information guidance for IG professionals

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) allows people to request any recorded information held by a public body. This guidance is to help health and care organisations deal with Freedom of Information (FOI) requests.

Handling freedom of information requests

This session is for staff with responsibility for managing freedom of information (FOI) requests. It explores what is meant by an FOI request, people’s legal rights in relation to FOI requests, and how to confirm if an FOI request is valid. The module provides a helpful 7 step process to manage FOI requests, and guides learners through the complexities of when it is appropriate to refuse an FOI request.