Call 0845 113 5000 for all non-emergencies and enquiries
Freedom of Information
What is the Freedom of Information Act?
The Freedom of Information Act 2000 came into effect on 1 January 2005 and gives a general right of access to all types of recorded information held by public authorities. Further information can be found on our Individual Rights of Access page or by visiting the Information Commissioner's website.
In addition, the following article on Freedom of Information and Data Protection was featured in the June 2007 edition of the Force newspaper 'NewsBeat'.
What kind of information can be requested?
The Freedom of Information Act gives rights of access to any kind of information which is not personal or environmental information, subject to a number of exemptions. Please visit our Disclosure Log to see examples of information the Force has released in response to requests made under the Freedom of Information Act.
Can an individual obtain personal information about themselves under the Act?
No. Individuals already have the right of access to information about themselves under the Data Protection Act 1998. As far as public authorities are concerned, the Freedom of Information Act extends this right to allow public access to all types of information held.