Does every request for information have to be treated formally as FOI request?

[LeakyPipes]

Hi all. I'm curious about this and haven't found the answer via Google.

Does every request for information sent to the admissions department of a large educational establishment have to be treated formally as a FOI request (and so dealt with by a dedicated department)? Or, is it okay for staff in admissions departments to respond less formally, but still accurately, to requests that don't refer to the FOI act?

It depends on what is being requested. But, even if it is treated as an FOI request, the response does not have to take any particular form. An informal response is fine provided it is accurate.

If you want it to be treated formally as a FOI request you have to say so when you make the request.

No, you don't. There is no set format for an FOI request. You don't have to mention the legislation or use the words "Freedom of Information". Any written request for information held by a public body could be categorised as an FOI request. However, just as there is no set format for a request, there is no set format for a response either. Unless the requester specifies that they want the information in a particular format, any response, formal or informal, including the requested information will do provided it is accurate.

If, for example, OP emailed the school with a request for their admission arrangements, that would be an FOI request regardless of how it was worded. A reply giving a link to their admission arrangements on their website would be an adequate response.

Thank you very much @prh47bridge 👍