Archive

Freedom of Information Flowchart

Navigating the steps of freedom of information requests can be complex. Considering requests, seeking clarification and applying exemptions is a normal part of obtaining and sharing data. It can, however be difficult to get everything right when dealing with a large volume of requests or when requests are complex. That's

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Freedom of Information Request Tracker

For any public authority or organisation subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2000, receiving a request can feel like a disruption to the "real" work. However, treating FOI requests as an afterthought is risky because of your statutory duties and the role FOI has in building openness and trust.

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Redaction and Freedom of Information

Redaction and Freedom of Information are closely related. The Freedom of Information Act (FOI Act) gives people with the right to access information held by or on behalf of public authorities. The FOI Act promotes transparency, accountability, and public trust in government and public sector operations. By enabling the public

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The machine readable data challenge

The obligation to provide information in a reusable, and machine readable data format not only arises under the Freedom of Information Act. It is also important for GDPR – when people exercise their right to data portability, for example. What exactly this means is a bit nebulous and in fact

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Valid Freedom of Information Requests

In order to be acted on by public authorities valid freedom of information requests must meet specific criteria. Here are the four essential elements that FOI requests must include to be considered valid before they can be handled properly. Contents What is a Freedom of Information Request? The Requester's Details

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Advice and Assistance under the FOI Act

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) grants the public the right to access information held by public authorities. Section 16 of the FOIA places a duty on public authorities to provide advice and assistance to persons who propose to make, or have made, requests for information to it. This

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FOI and GDPR: sharing personal data

FOI and GDPR meet when it comes to sharing personal data. The Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) is key legislation for transparency and accountability in the United Kingdom. Enacted with the aim of giving people greater access to information held by public authorities, it empowers them to request a

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Common Freedom of Information Mistakes

Despite its significance, organisations often make substantial freedom of information mistakes. This is both when handling freedom of information (FOI) requests, and within their wider FOI systems. This article explores some of the most significant FOI mistakes made by organisations and sheds light on how to avoid them. ________________________________________________________________________________________________ [su_box

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Developing a Statutory Publication Scheme

Public authorities have a number of duties under the Freedom of Information Act, and one of them is developing a statutory publication scheme. However, many organisations are falling short in this area. Transparency and accountability lie at the heart of democratic governance. The UK Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA)

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How to Handle Freedom of Information Requests

How to handle freedom of information requests? The UK Freedom of Information Act 2000 is key legislation that gives individuals the right to access information held by public authorities. Effectively handling freedom of information (FOI) requests is essential to ensure transparency, accountability, and building trust. Below we will explore the

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