This case study aims to demonstrate the uses of FOI to interest groups. It is based on phone interviews conducted with 9 selected interest groups such as Friends of the Derwent. The paper suggests that lack of promotion has affected interest groups' responses to FOI, but that it has had an impact on most groups surveyed regardless. Those who had used the Act had generally obtained useful information.The study concludes that all the interest groups surveyed were aware of the legislation, but this was due to factors other than government promotion of the Act. There was a general consensus that there was no effort on the part of the government to make the groups aware of the legislation. However, the possibility that the groups themselves are equally responsible for their lack of knowledge is discussed. Many groups had not used the legislation because the information they need is already available to them through normal access channels or is exempt. All groups believed that FOI has had a positive impact on them and the general community.