Use this guide next time you are firing off an email to a public authority requesting information
Freedom of Information (FOI) requests are a staple of investigative journalism and central to some of the biggest news stories of our generation.
For inexperienced journalists especially, this may seem like a daunting task. But it is a basic right to request information from a public authority. Still, knowing the procedure and basic etiquette can take some getting used to.
Paul Gibbons has spent 26 years in information management, working in the Houses of Parliament, Greater London Authority and as an independent consultant. He also runs the FOI Man blog, where he has posted a guide on making FOI requests.
He urged those making requests to be polite, stating: "Try not to assume that the person reading your request is determined to avoid answering your question(s). It's likely that members of your own family, perhaps some of your friends, are public servants. Would you feel content to send them your request?"
Join us at our next digital journalism conference Newsrewired from 1 December 2020 for four days of industry expert panel discussions and workshops. Visit newsrewired.com for event agenda and tickets.
If you like our news and feature articles, you can sign up to receive our free daily (Mon-Fri) email newsletter (mobile friendly).
Sign up to receive job alerts of your choice by email, or manage your subscription
Featured recruiter: click to view its vacancies
The UK’s fastest-growing travel trade media brand seeks a full-time, NCTJ-trained journalist to join its busy news team
Subscribe to our newsletter for latest news, tips, jobs and more
End that deadline stress today and find help in our freelance directory
Personal trainer James Hilton has launched a podcast 'Jim's Gym - Inspiring Movement'. James, a specialist in biomechanics and injury recovery from the Cotswolds, runs Jim's Gym, a virtual online space supporting people over 55 to be more active
Our 35th Newsrewired conference will be held 13 May 2025, News UK, London.
Our community of experts gives a heads-up on the most important shifts your newsroom needs to prepare for this year
Conferences and study weeks are fantastic opportunities to get the latest updates on the industry and network with your peers
If you find your social feeds a tad too heavy on men's voices, follow and connect with these fantastic women experts on indie media
How do you move print readers to digital? Are there other ways to hold on to subscribers besides a last-ditch deal?
