A Freedom of Information (FOI) request is a request to access recorded information held by a public authority.

This is different from a Subject Access Request (SAR), which relates specifically to personal data.

FOI covers recorded, non-personal information held by the Trust in connection with its official functions. This may include:

• Policies and procedures (e.g. safeguarding, behaviour, complaints)
• Organisational information, such as structures, roles, and responsibilities
• Financial information, including budgets, spending, and contracts (where not commercially sensitive)
• Meeting records, such as agendas, reports, and minutes
• Statistical information, for example performance data or anonymised trends
• Correspondence (e.g. emails or letters) relating to Trust business, where it does not include personal data
• Operational information, such as plans, strategies, or project documentation

All information must be recorded and already held by the Trust at the time of the request.

No.

The Freedom of Information Act provides a general right of access to recorded information, but this right is not absolute.

While the Trust aims to be open and transparent, there are circumstances where information cannot be shared. For example:

• Information may be withheld where a legal exemption applies (see section ‘What information might you not share’), such as where disclosure would prejudice the effective operation of the Trust, or where information is commercially sensitive or provided in confidence
• Information may be partially disclosed, with certain details redacted
• In some cases, we are required to apply a public interest test, balancing transparency against any potential harm caused by disclosure

Where we are unable to provide information, we will explain the reason and refer to the relevant exemption.

FOI generally applies to recorded; non-personal information held by the Trust. It does not cover:

• Personal data that can identify individuals (this is handled under data protection law, such as through a Subject Access Request)
• Information that is not recorded, for example opinions or explanations that have not been documented
• Information held only in a private capacity, rather than as part of the Trust’s official business
• Draft or incomplete information, in some circumstances, where it is not yet finalised or may be exempt from disclosure

Some information may also be withheld where a legal exemption applies under the Freedom of Information Act (see section ‘What information might you not share’).

Anyone can make a Freedom of Information request.  You do not need to explain why you want the information.

To help us respond efficiently, we recommend that you:

• Submit your request in writing (email is preferred)
• Clearly describe the information you are requesting
• Include your name and contact details

Requests can be sent to: data@gosforthgroup.org.uk

We do not usually need to verify your identity for an FOI request.
However, we may contact you if we need clarification about your request.

We will respond within 20 school days of receiving your request.

In some cases, we may:

• Ask you to clarify your request
• Extend the response time were permitted under the Act

If this applies, we will let you know.

Most FOI requests are provided free of charge if administered electronically.

However, we do charge fee for:

• Printing, photocopying, or postage which is currently 10p per A4 sheet

We will inform you in advance if a fee applies.

In some circumstances, we may:

• Refuse a request if it is vexatious or repeated
• Refuse or limit a response if the cost of compliance exceeds the legal threshold

We will explain the reasons if this happens.

We aim to be as open as possible, but some information may be withheld where exemptions apply. These can include:

• Personal data (protected under data protection law)
• Confidential information provided to the Trust
• Safeguarding-sensitive information
• Commercially sensitive information
• Information intended for future publication
• Legally privileged information (e.g. legal advice)

Where information cannot be shared, we will explain this as far as we are able.

We will usually provide information in an electronic format (for example, by secure encrypted email).

If you request a different format (such as paper copies), we will consider this where reasonably practicable. Please note that charges may apply for printing, photocopying, or postage (see section ‘Does it cost anything?’)

If you are dissatisfied with how your request has been handled, you can:

1. Contact us to request an internal review
2. Raise a concern with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) if you remain unhappy

Further guidance is available from:

• Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO): https://ico.org.uk
• Freedom of Information guidance: https://ico.org.uk/for-the-public/official-information