Frequently asked questions

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) and the information we publish on our website.

I am not a UK citizen. Can I access British Council information?

Anyone, anywhere in the world can request British Council information under FOIA. If you cannot find the information on our website, you can make a request for information.

How do I get hold of published information in hard copy?

Requests for printed versions of publications, stating the name(s) of the publication(s) you want, should be addressed to:
Information and Knowledge Management
British Council
10 Spring Gardens
London
SW1A 2BN
 

Can I get information held by the British Council about myself or other individuals?

Under the Data Protection Act you are entitled only to personal information that the British Council holds about you. See our Privacy Policy for more information.
 

What kind of information is being published?

We aim to make the maximum amount of information about us and what we do readily available at minimum inconvenience and cost. We already publish a great deal of information on our website.
 

The information I want is not on your website. Why?

The information you want may not be easily published, may be exempt from disclosure according to the Freedom of Information Act or may have been excluded because we considered it was not of sufficient general interest. If you would like to make a request or a suggestion, please contact the Information and Knowledge Management, the central British Council business area that is responsible for the publication scheme.
 

How do I get access to older information? 

Send a written enquiry (by post or by e-mail) to the Freedom of Information Officer, who will respond as soon as possible.
Information and Knowledge Management
British Council
10 Spring Gardens
London
SW1A 2BN
Each request will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please bear in mind that some older information will have been destroyed according to British Council retention guidelines.
 

How much do publications cost?

Where there is a charge, the cost will be shown against each item.
 

There is a charge for the publication I want, where do I send the money?

This will be clearly stated against the item in question. Unless otherwise stated, do not send money to the British Council.
 

How do I request additional information about Freedom of Information?

Enquiries should be addressed initially to the British Council Freedom of Information Officer:
Information and Knowledge Management
British Council
10 Spring Garden
London
SW1A 2BN
 

How do I request additional information about data protection?

We apply the UK Data Protection Act 1998 to all of our global operations unless the local equivalent law is stronger. To find out more, visit our Privacy Policy page. You can also contact our Data Protection Officer:
Information and Knowledge Management
British Council
10 Spring Gardens
London
SW1A 2BN