Freedom of Information 2025

What makes a good FOI response? How important is communication in helping the FOI process run smoothly? Are there simple steps that public bodies can take to improve their responses, helping requesters understand and accept the outcome (even if it doesn't go their way)?

This workshop will draw on real-world examples to highlight areas where improvements in communications could have brought real benefits, with practical exercises to give delegates the skills they need to reap the benefits from a customer-focused approach to FOI.

Test your FOI knowledge with a live head-to-head Snakes and Ladders competition featuring a 10ft board.

Join a team and battle other delegates to see who comes out on top to become FOI champions!

Answer challenging questions to advance further and show off what you've learned on public interest tests.

Since the dawn of FOI its interaction with data protection has been tricky territory. This workshop will focus on identifiability, because if 20 years of FOI have taught us anything, it’s that it is not always easy to know when someone is identifiable from particular information. We’ll use real-world examples to highlight key questions and important considerations when determining whether something qualifies as personal data.

How can public bodies get ahead of the request before they’re made?

This session will explore why proactive publication matters, what to publish, how to publish, and good practice examples including case studies from Scottish public authorities who have reduced FOI load via publication, and any lessons to be learned from Scottish Information Commissioner intervention.

Where has FOISA been and where is it going?

As Scotland celebrates the 20th anniversary of the FOISA coming into force, this informal discussion will bring together past and present Scottish Information Commissioners to discuss the impact that the act has had on Scottish public services over the years. Reflecting on the initial expectations, key developments as it became more established, and where it could/should go next.