Make a Freedom of Information request

Please use the link above to make a request. Alternatively, you can email us the following information:

•    your name
•    your contact address (preferably an email address)
•    a clear description of the information required
•    the format you would like to receive the information in, such as paper, or in a spreadsheet (by default, we will email the information)

How long it takes

We will acknowledge your request within 3 working days. We may ask you for further information.

We will respond to your request within 20 working days from the day after we receive the request. If we ask for further information, the time begins once we have received this. Occasionally we will extend the deadline to reply to you, and we will contact you to let you know this.

Costs

Most requests are free. If postage and photocopying cost over £10, the charges are:

•    postage costs
•    10p per page (black and white) 
•    50p per page (colour) 

You will be advised of any charges before a response is sent and you can withdraw your request without paying. 

There are a number of reasons we might refuse a request, such as:

•    we do not hold the information
•    it will take 18 working hours or more to provide the information (we'll contact you so you can reduce the request)
•    an exemption or exception applies (see below)

Exemptions and exceptions  

Sometimes we cannot release information to the public because it might significantly disrupt service delivery, breach privacy, cause risks to public safety, or encourage crime. 

If we decide that an exemption or exception applies we will tell you why and, where relevant, explain the public interest reasons for doing so. You can appeal against this decision and details of how to do this will be included in our response.

More on refusing a request

If you feel that your request has not been handled well, if you do not agree that the information should be exempt, or if you disagree with suggested costs, you can ask for an Internal Review. 

If you’re not satisfied with the Internal Review outcome, you can complain to the Information Commissioner.