DARE UK (Data and Analytics Research Environments UK)

The DARE UK programme brings together data owners, data analysts, technology experts, and the public to improve data infrastructures for better research outcomes in the UK. It is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under the Digital Research Infrastructure Programme and led by Health Data Research (HDR UK) and ADR UK.

DARE UK is developing tools, technologies, and standards to streamline secure data linkage and access at scale. In collaboration with expert communities and the public – including via funded and community-driven initiatives – it aims to establish a network of trusted research environments where approved researchers can securely access and analyse sensitive data for research in the public good.

What is data research infrastructure?

Data research infrastructure refers to the systems and processes that support research and analysis using sensitive data. This includes physical systems, such as the data centres where data is stored; computer software that researchers use to analyse data; governance processes that regulate data access and use; and the people who run these systems and conduct the research.

Scope and governance

DARE UK’s scope includes all public good research conducted by UKRI research councils that uses (or anticipates using) sensitive data from different research disciplines and sectors. It is governed by a Programme Board, which meets regularly to discuss key programme developments and decisions. The Board includes ADR UK, as well as public representatives, and receives independent advice from a Scientific and Technical Advisory Group.