Make a freedom of information (FOI) request

UKRI is committed to openness and transparency. We make information about our activities widely available through our website and publications unless there is a good reason not to do so.

Our publication scheme outlines the types of information we regularly publish about how UKRI conducts its business to help you locate and access what you need.

Information about the research we support can be found on Gateway to Research.

The type of information you can request

If you cannot find the information you are looking for, you have the right to request it under the Freedom of Information Act.

You can ask for any information held by UKRI about how we do business.

This information will generally not include:

  • anything we are prevented by law from disclosing, is considered to be protected, or is exempt under the Freedom of Information Act
  • information that is no longer readily available because it has been archived or is too difficult to access.

If your request involves environmental information it will be dealt with under the Environmental Information Regulations.

Before making a request you should check to see if your query has been answered before in a previous information release.

If you are looking for information about your own personal data and what we hold about you, there is a different process that you should follow.

Request personal data or information from UKRI.

Charges for information

Most information is provided free of charge. Any charges that need to be made will be justified, transparent and kept to a minimum.

These may include:

  • costs relating to photocopying, postage or packaging
  • costs incurred as a result of viewing or making information available, for example, accessing datasets that are relevant copyright works.

If we need to make a charge, we will confirm the costs with you before the information is provided. We may ask you for payment up front.

How to make a request

Make your request to:

Freedom of Information Officer
UK Research and Innovation
Polaris House
North Star Avenue
Swindon
SN2 1FL

Email: [email protected]

In your request you should:

  • outline as clearly as possible the information you are looking for
  • provide dates, if relevant
  • list any people or organisations involved
  • state the format you would like information (hard copy or electronic)
  • provide your full name and address, either postal or email, where you want to be contacted.

How to make an appeal

If you are not satisfied with the response you receive, you can make an appeal.

Your appeal should be sent to:

Head of Information Governance
UK Research and Innovation
Polaris House
North Star Avenue
Swindon
SN2 1FL

Email: [email protected]

We will acknowledge your appeal when we receive it and tell you how long we will take to deal with it. This will depend on the complexity. Your case will be thoroughly investigated before you receive a response.

If you are still not satisfied, you can then contact the Information Commissioner’s Office for a final decision.

Information Commissioner’s Office
Wycliffe House
Water Lane
Wilmslow
Cheshire
SK9 5AF

Telephone: 0303 123 1113

Email: [email protected]

Last updated: 8 October 2024

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