You have a right to request the information and you don’t necessarily have to specify particular documents - although it helps if your request is clear
The following advice and examples should help you make your request:
- Be as clear as possible. If we aren't sure what you want, we will have to ask you for further explanation
- Try to pinpoint what you really want. Sometimes we may refuse a request if it would be too expensive or time consuming to deal with
- Where possible, ask for specific information rather than using open-ended questions. ‘What or ‘how much’ are more likely to get a useful response than ‘why’
- Use straightforward, polite language; avoid basing your request on assumptions or opinions, or mixing requests with complaints or comments
