Make an FOI Request Without Revealing Your Identity
Some FOI requests are sensitive. You may need information from a public authority, but not want that authority to know who is interested in the information.
FOI Proxy UK provides a discreet route for suitable Freedom of Information requests. We review your enquiry, refine the wording where needed, and submit suitable requests in our own name using our own contact details.
Your identity is not disclosed to the public authority unless disclosure is legally required.
Start a Confidential FOI Enquiry View Service Levels & PricingWhy Someone Might Not Want to Be Identified
There are legitimate reasons why a person may want information from a public authority without being personally identified to that authority.
- The request concerns a sensitive dispute or complaint
- The requester is an employee, former employee or contractor
- The requester is a journalist, researcher or campaigner
- The requester is a business researching public-sector activity
- The requester does not want to alert an organisation to their interest
FOI Proxy UK is designed for those situations, provided the request is lawful and suitable.
How the Process Works
1. You Send an Enquiry
You tell us what information you want and which public authority may hold it.
2. We Review It
We check whether the request appears suitable for FOI and whether the wording can be improved.
3. We Confirm Wording
Before anything is submitted, we confirm the proposed wording and service level by email.
4. We Submit Where Suitable
FOI Proxy UK submits the request in its own name using its own contact details.
5. We Track the Response
We monitor the request and forward the response to you once it is received.
6. You Receive It Discreetly
The public authority deals with FOI Proxy UK, not with you directly.
What the Public Authority Sees
The public authority receives a request from FOI Proxy UK. The request is submitted using FOI Proxy UK's own name and contact details.
We do not disclose your name, email address, payment details or background reason for the request unless disclosure is required by law, court order, regulatory requirement or another lawful obligation.
FOI Proxy UK vs Making the Request Yourself
| Feature | FOI Proxy UK | Direct FOI Request |
|---|---|---|
| Your identity disclosed to the authority | No, unless legally required | Usually yes |
| Request wording reviewed before submission | Yes | You handle it yourself |
| Response tracked and forwarded | Yes | You handle it yourself |
| Suitable for discreet enquiries | Yes | Limited |
Important Limits
FOI Proxy UK does not guarantee that information will be disclosed. Public authorities may refuse requests where exemptions apply, where the information is not held, where the cost limit is exceeded, or where the request is considered vexatious or repeated.
We do not impersonate clients, submit unlawful or abusive requests, or provide legal advice.
Start a Confidential FOI Enquiry
Send us the information you would like obtained and the public authority involved. We will review your enquiry and contact you before any request is submitted or payment is taken.
Start a Confidential FOI Enquiry