What should one do when making an FOI request?

When making a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, it is essential to provide a clear description of the information being requested in writing. This written request is crucial because it helps the public authority understand exactly what information you seek, which in turn allows them to locate it more efficiently. A well-crafted request that specifies the details and context of the information can lead to a quicker and more accurate response.

Additionally, a written request establishes a formal record of your inquiry, which can be important for follow-up purposes and ensures that the authority processes it within the required timescales. This structured approach is necessary because FOI requests often need to go through specific administrative protocols to comply with legal requirements.

Other methods, such as calling the authority or waiting for the information to be made publicly available, might not yield timely or complete responses and do not provide the same benefits that a written request does. Similarly, relying solely on an online form could limit the clarity and specificity of the request if the form does not encourage or allow for detailed explanations.