How you can access information held by Oxfordshire County Council.
Before making your information request
Oxfordshire County Council already makes available a large amount of information through several means including this website and libraries. Before making your request, please check whether the information you are looking for is already available to you. The open information [1] page lists some of the data already available.
If you have a general enquiry, you could try telephoning the relevant service [2] first as it might mean that you receive the information more quickly.
Making a successful request for information
The Freedom of Information Act [3] (FOI Act) gives a right of public access to all recorded information held by Oxfordshire County Council, unless an exemption from release applies.
What information you can request
You have the right to request any information held by Oxfordshire County Council. Freedom of information covers information that is difficult to obtain by other means. The Act allows access to recorded information, such as emails, meeting minutes, research or reports.
However, it is important to note that the Freedom of Information Act does not give an automatic right to council documents or other types of records. Instead it gives a right (subject to any exemptions) to information contained within them.
Make it clear what you want to know
Think carefully about what information you are seeking. Ask for the information you need, rather than a general question you want the council to answer. A precise, unambiguous description should lead to a prompt response.
You do not have to say why you want the information but this can be helpful - it avoids misunderstanding and can help us to find the information you are seeking. If we do not have enough information in order to find what you are looking for, we may come back to you for clarification.
Direct your request to the right place
Find out who to send your request to. A request directed to the appropriate contact/ service in the council will often help you receive a quick response.
Submit a freedom of information request online
If you are unable to use the online form you can print and send in a FOI request for information (pdf format, 45 KB) [5].
If you need further advice about making a freedom of information request please contact the FOI team [6].