Data access overview
Find out more about the process of applying to access secure datasets for research.
Accessing data
Search available datasets, find out how to access data, submit an enquiry and explore additional information for researchers through our Researcher Access Service.
Our vision is to promote and advance health and social wellbeing in Scotland by enabling access to public sector data about people, places and businesses.
The data access process
Pre-application checklist
Understand what is involved in a data access request and how to complete the initial enquiry form.
Begin an enquiry
Once you have your project information ready, fill out an enquiry form to kick off your request to access public sector datasets.
Information for researchers
View all resources
eDRIS researcher support services
eDRIS Research Coordinators provide end-to-end support for researchers applying for access to public sector data.
Information governance for researchers
Key principles and legal considerations of information governance for the data access process.
Trusted Research Environments
There are a range of trusted research environments (TREs) in Scotland providing access to secure data.
Research data security
Help for navigating data security while enabling high quality research.
Approvals and training
Details on approved organisations in the UK, mandatory training for researchers and additional approvals.
Terminology for researchers
Our list of common terms will help you understand more about public sector data in Scotland.
About the Digital Economy Act
Research Data Scotland (RDS) is aligning with the Digital Economy Act (DEA) to simplify and accelerate access to public sector data for research while maintaining the highest standards of privacy, security, and public trust.
About the Public Impact Advisory Group pilot
A new Public Impact Advisory Group (PIAG) will provide early feedback on Researcher Access Service applications.
Research for public good
What do we mean by 'public good'? Learn more about how researchers demonstrate that their projects will deliver clear benefit to the public.
