Freedom of Information (FOI) and Data Requests

Last updated: 01/03/2026

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Missing People UK & IR • 10/01/2026

Last edited by

Josh Storer • 22/01/2026

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01/07/2026

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This page explains how to request information. In most cases, people are looking for a data request (also known as a Subject Access Request) under UK GDPR. Freedom of Information (FOI) applies to public authorities and may not apply to all organisations, but we still provide a clear route for requesting information from our team.

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1. FOI vs data requests (UK GDPR)2. What you can request 3. How to make a request 4. Identity checks and safety 5. Timescales and responses 6. Limits and exemptions 7. Contact us

1. FOI vs data requests (UK GDPR)

Freedom of Information (FOI)

FOI generally applies to public authorities (for example, some government bodies). It is primarily about access to recorded information held by those authorities.

UK GDPR data requests (Subject Access)

If you want a copy of your personal data held by this platform, you can ask us. This is usually the correct route for users who submitted reports, created accounts, or interacted with cases.

2. What you can request

You can request information related to your use of the platform. Examples may include:

Examples of personal data we may hold

Account and profile information you provided
Reports, comments, uploads or messages you submitted
Cases you created or are linked to (where applicable)
High-level security/audit records needed to protect the service

What we do not provide

We cannot disclose other people’s personal data, and we may withhold information where disclosure could cause harm, compromise safeguarding, or breach privacy.

3. How to make a request

The easiest way is via our Contact page. Please include:

Your full name
The email address linked to your account (if you have one)
A clear description of what you are requesting
Any case ID(s) involved (if relevant)

4. Identity checks and safety

To protect people, we may need to confirm your identity before we provide personal data. This helps prevent information being released to the wrong person.

Where a request relates to a safeguarding or missing person matter, we may ask for additional context or advise you to contact the police if immediate risk exists.

5. Timescales and responses

Typical response time

We aim to respond within 30 days. If a request is complex, we may need longer, but we will explain why and keep you updated.

How we respond

We will normally reply to the email address you used to make the request. If you ask for a specific format, we will try to accommodate it where practical and safe.

6. Limits and exemptions

Some information may be withheld where disclosure would:

Reveal someone else’s personal data
Cause safeguarding risk or harm
Compromise security, fraud prevention, or platform integrity
Break legal obligations or confidentiality requirements

7. Contact us

If you want to request information, correct data, or ask questions about privacy and governance, please contact the team.