TODAY! Holding public authorities to account using the Freedom of Information Act –  6.30pm, @ Patagonia

Join us tomorrow for a practical workshop session on how to use FOIA requests to hold public authorities to account. Sign up via eventbrite here 

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) can be a powerful tool for activists and citizens seeking to hold public authorities to account. Since its introduction in the year 2000, FOIA requests by campaigners have brought to light discussions and findings that those in power would rather keep buried. If you’ve ever wanted to make a FOIA request but didn’t know where to start, do come along to tomorrow’s workshop at Patagonia, King Street, Manchester.

We’ll provide a clear overview of the processes, along with tips and suggestions for framing your FOIA request. For those who have tried submitting a FOIA and received an unsatisfactory response there will also be a chance to get feedback from others on what you might do differently next time.  There will be plenty of examples, and time to meet others. By the end of the session, you should feel confident crafting and submitting a FOIA request on an issue that matters to you. We will also review what to do with any information you uncover and discuss options for follow-up support after the workshop.

This session is by no means aimed solely at climate campaigners or those scrutinising councils (our bag). We’ll explain Environmental Information Regulations (a cousin of the FOIA) for those interested, but the skills and tools covered can be used to get answers from the police, NHS, schools, universities, combined authorities and parliament.

It’s all free, with light refreshments – so do sign up here so that we have an idea of numbers, and spread the word!

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