How can I access data for research?
Data can be accessed by accredited researchers for approved research projects that are in the public interest. ADR UK partners have rigorous safeguards in place to ensure data cannot be accessed by any unauthorised person, or for any reason other than research in the public benefit.
There are several different routes through which researchers can securely access administrative data.
The route you take depends on what data you want to access, where in the UK you want to access it from, and what existing accreditation you and your institution have for accessing data.
Whichever route you select, researchers wishing to use the data must go through an accreditation process. You can find all the details about becoming an accredited researcher through the Office for National Statistics, where you can also create an account on the accreditation hub to make your application. The process includes undertaking Safe Researcher Training and passing a final test.
Full accredited researcher status under the Digital Economy Act 2017 is valid for five years. Provisional accredited researcher status is valid for one year.
Once accredited as a researcher, you can then submit your research project for approval. This includes an assessment of the ethics of your proposed research and checks that the data access requested matches the research questions being asked.
Nation specific information
Some researcher accreditation requirements vary across UK nations when accessing local trusted research environments (TREs). Always check with your local provider for the most up to date information. A summary of requirements is outlined below.
Researchers in Wales should complete the ONS accredited researcher training as above, and then follow a two stage application process if requesting access to the SAIL databank.
Researchers in Northern Ireland should also complete the ONS accredited researcher training and then obtain an AccessNI certificate to access the Secure Environment. Visit the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) website for more information.
Researchers in Scotland should complete the ONS accredited researcher training, noting that specific data controllers have specific training course requirements. More details can be found on the Scottish Centre for Administrative Data Research (SCADR) website.
How to access our data
There are three key ways to access our data, all designed to ensure secure and safe use:
- In one of our trusted research environments based in each of the four UK nations
- Via an approved, secure connection (Assured Organisational Connectivity) to a trusted research environment
- In one of a network of SafePods based at academic institutions around the UK
You can find out what data is available for research, and which routes it can be accessed through, in our Data Catalogues.
