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Making a Freedom of Information Request

The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002

The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002, commonly abbreviated to FOISA, came into force on 1 January 2005. 

The Scottish Parliament approved an amendment to the Act in 2016 to extend the organisations covered by the legislation. 

From 1 September 2016, Kilmarnock Prison Services Ltd (KPSL) and Serco Ltd are classed as Scottish Public Authorities for the purposes of the operation of HMP Kilmarnock. This change also brings KPSL and Serco under the provisions of the Environmental Information Regulations. 

This change to the legislation allows any person to request information which is held by KPSL or Serco in relation to HMP Kilmarnock and is entitled to receive that information within 20 working days unless an exemption to the release of that information applies.

How to make a a Freedom of Information Request?

The easiest way is by emailing us at [email protected]

If you would prefer to write to us, then you can send your letter to: 

HMP Kilmarnock FOI Team
Mauchline Road
Kilmarnock
KA1 5AA 

We would also recommend making use of the webpage of the information rights group WhatDoTheyKnow to submit and track your FOI requests.

Getting help making a request

Serco are committed to ensuring that any person who wishes to make a valid Freedom of Information request is given as much assistance as possible. If you need help to submit a request then please feel free to contact us by email or post.

Validity of requests

Serco are only covered by the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 for the purpose of the operation of HMP Kilmarnock. 

Kilmarnock Prison Services Limited

If your request for information relates to Kilmarnock Prison Services Limited, please contact them directly. 

KPSL can be contacted at;

The General Manager
Kilmarnock Prison Services Limited
Freedom of Information
1st Floor
11 Thistle Street
Edinburgh 
EH2 1DF

Telephone: 0131 240 5051
 

Scottish Prison Service 

If your request relates to any other prison in Scotland, please contact the Scottish Prison Service at;

Scottish Prison Service 
Calton House
5 Redheughs Rigg
Edinburgh
EH12 9HW

Tel. 0131 330 3500
Email: [email protected]

National Health Service

If your request relates to the provision of healthcare services within the prison, please contact NHS Ayrshire and Arran at;

Freedom of Information Officer
28A Lister Street
University Hospital Crosshouse
Kilmarnock
KA2 0BB

Tel. 01563 826112 
Email: [email protected]