Freedom of Information Request
Statutory request for information from a UK public authority under the FOIA 2000.
This template was not drafted by a solicitor.
It is an editorial reference based on the official sources we cite. You are responsible for any document you send. For high-stakes matters (court proceedings, large sums, deportation, criminal allegations, child welfare), have a regulated solicitor review or draft your document.
When to use this template
You want information held by a UK public authority (central government department, local council, NHS body, school, university, etc.) and the information is not your personal data.
When NOT to use this template
For your personal data — use a DSAR instead (Article 15 UK GDPR). For environmental information — use the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 (broader rights). For private companies — FOIA does not apply.
Legal Basis
Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA).
Before you send
- Phrasing too broadly — narrow requests get faster, more useful responses
- Failing to specify the format (electronic vs paper)
- Asking for opinions or analysis — FOIA covers recorded information, not new commentary
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗Phrasing too broadly — narrow requests get faster, more useful responses
- ✗Failing to specify the format (electronic vs paper)
- ✗Asking for opinions or analysis — FOIA covers recorded information, not new commentary
Build Your Letter
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Letter preview
[Your Name] [Your Address] [Email — required for response] [PUBLIC AUTHORITY NAME] — FOI Officer [PUBLIC AUTHORITY ADDRESS] Date: [DATE] Dear Sir or Madam, Freedom of Information Request — Freedom of Information Act 2000 I am writing to request the following information held by [PUBLIC AUTHORITY NAME]: [WHAT YOU ARE ASKING FOR] The period of interest is [TIME PERIOD]. I would prefer to receive the information in electronic form by email to [YOUR EMAIL FOR RESPONSE]. Under section 10 of the FOIA, you must respond promptly and in any event within 20 working days. If the information is exempt, please specify which exemption applies and, where required, conduct the public interest test. If you can provide some but not all of the requested information, please do so rather than refusing in full. Yours faithfully, [YOUR NAME]
Unfilled fields appear as [FIELD NAME]. Review the letter carefully before sending. This template is a starting point — adapt it to your specific circumstances.