#CIJSummer: Using Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

This two-part practical online course will guide you through the basics of the freedom of information legislation and equip you with the skills necessary to make successful information requests and appeals.

This course is part of the #CIJSummer Investigative Journalism Conference 2021.

Date: 8 July
Times: 10:00 – 11:00 AND 11:15 – 12:15
Group size: max 40 people.
Class duration: 1h x 2 times a day x 1 day
Level of participation: very high. Regular Q&As.

“I’ve never submitted an FOI request so I liked how the course showed me from start to finish how it works. It was also incredibly useful to hear about the potential pitfalls and what to do to appeal.”
Feedback 2020

“Jenna is very knowledgeable about FOI requests and I really appreciated her sharing her expertise.”
Feedback 2020

Please note that this course has a specific focus on UK FOI law and is unable to address the legislation in other national contexts in any great detail.

Technical Requirements

This course will need you to have the following software/apps/tools on your computer:

Zoom app
Camera and audio

This course will be hosted on Zoom. To find out more about how we use Zoom, please check out our Zoom InfoSec page.

8 July 2021 – Introduction to FOIA

10:00–11:00

How to make successful Freedom of Information requests. What to do if your request has been unsuccessful. How to appeal and win.

8 July 2021 – Case studies

11:15–12:15

Case studies and your specific questions.

Jenna Corderoy

Jenna Corderoy is a reporter for openDemocracy’s investigations team. She specialises in obtaining documents under the Freedom of Information Act, and has brought several successful FOIA challenges at tribunal.

8 July 2021 10.00–11.00 Time zone: BST (UK Time)
8 July 2021 11.15–12.15 Time zone: BST (UK Time)

Time zone: BST (UK Time)

Location: Zoom meeting