Get help (for public sector agencies) (text alternative)

I want help with an official information request to see when I need to respond by

Use the official information calculator to calculate the response time. 

Need further help? Submit a request for advice.

I want help with an official information request to process the request

The Ombudsman publishes a number of guides for processing OIA requests. Read the OIA guide for Ministers and agencies or the LGOIMA for local government agencies, or see all guides on the resources for agencies page.

Haven't found what you're looking for? Submit a request for advice.

I want help with an official information request to decide if I need to withhold anything

The Ombudsman publishes guidance on withholding grounds, including:

• Privacy
• Commercial information
• Negotiations
• Confidentiality
• Confidential advice to Government
• Free and frank opinions 

Haven't found what you're looking for? Search the resources for agencies page or submit a request for advice.

I want help with unreasonable complainant conduct

See the guide to managing unreasonable complainant conduct. 

Haven't found what you're looking for? Submit a request for advice.

I want help with good decision making processes

The Ombudsman publishes a range of guidance on good decision-making processes, including:

• Effective complaint handling
• Good decision making by agencies
• Good complaints handling by school boards of trustees
• Managing unreasonable complainant conduct

Haven't found what you're looking for? Submit a request for advice.

I want help with protected disclosures

The Ombudsman publishes a guide for agencies and a guide for whistle-blowers.

For help or advice with dealing with a protected disclosure, submit a request to the Ombudsman.

I want help with training

The Ombudsman's strategic advice team regularly runs training sessions with agencies on the OIA, LGOIMA and good administration. Please let the team know any accessibility requirements for the session. 

Submit a request using the online form.

I want help with something else

Do you need help with something else not listed here? Submit a request using the online form.