Framework launched to support private sector research

The Operational Framework is designed to support informed, consistent decision-making by Scotland’s public sector data controllers when managing access requests by industry for research using securely held de-identified data.

Working on behalf of the Scottish Government, RDS has developed the Operational Framework to support the aims of the Unlocking the Value of Data programme. The Framework aims to develop a more effective approach to private sector access to public sector data across Scotland, to better realise the social, economic, and environmental benefits of research by the private sector.

Through the Framework, RDS and the Scottish Government seek to enable clear, ethical, efficient and secure routes to access and use data for projects that deliver public benefit.

Public sector data can play a vital role in transforming our services if used in ethical, transparent and publicly trusted ways. Public engagement has informed the development of this Operational Framework, and public trust will continue to serve as the touchstone for how public sector data is used in Scotland.

This initial version of the Framework will allow for practical testing and evaluation. It will continue to be developed in collaboration with data controllers and other partners.

On publication of the Operational Framework, Roger Halliday, CEO of RDS, said: “Scotland has a rich resource of public sector data that, if used in line with ethical and security standards, can provide real benefits to the people of Scotland.

“Alongside our universities and research institutions, the private sector has the potential to generate research insights that address some of society’s biggest challenges, including areas like sustainability of our health and care services, or inequalities in life expectancy, and it’s vital that we realise that potential to its fullest.

“I’m delighted to see the publication of the initial Operational Framework, which marks an important milestone in our work to streamline secure access to data that improves people’s lives.”

Developing the Operational Framework

The Framework builds on existing work by RDS in this area including recent public workshops to understand public opinions on possible models for private sector access to data.

This first iteration of the Framework has been developed alongside considerable engagement with a range of organisations and experts across Scotland, and it will continue to be developed after initial publication. This will include further testing and evaluation within Scotland’s healthcare sector and beyond. Building on existing good practice in Scotland, the UK and internationally, the Framework will be refined through cross-sector collaboration and incorporating lessons learned from its application in an operational context, alongside regular reviews and development of supporting materials.

RDS wishes to continue discussions with data controllers and other interested parties — including private sector companies, members of the public and other groups — to refine and implement the Framework. If you would like to share your thoughts on the Framework to help us develop future iterations, please get in touch.

Collaborating with members of the public, academia and private sector organisations

Carol Sinclair, Chair of the Health and Social Care Data Board, said: “The RDS Operational Framework is an important step forward to help improve industry access to data. The Data Board for Health and Social Care is pleased to be supporting the initial implementation and testing phase following its launch in March.

“The Framework will be available to everyone in the data controller community, and we hope to see widespread adoption and use of the framework as it matures and becomes part of ‘business as usual’.

“Our expectation is that researchers will have a more positive experience with greater consistency and standardisation in the processing and approval of applications from third and independent sectors, industry, local government and academic partners, as well as improving the experience of academic applicants.”

Dr Catherine Kelly, Consultant and Chief Clinical Information Officer, Digital and Information Services, NHS Borders, said: “This Operational Framework will make it easier for researchers and innovators to access public sector data - through clearer, more consistent routes - while maintaining robust safeguards so data is used appropriately, ethically and safely.

“It aims to accelerate life sciences research and innovation by enabling secure and streamlined data access. In doing so, it will strengthen Scotland’s offer for inward investment and partnerships, while ensuring demonstrable public benefit and sustained public trust.”

Prof. Colin McCowan, Professor of Data Science at the University of St Andrews, said: “The pandemic showed that Scotland’s data resources when used to their full effect are some of the best in the world. Enabling access to approved researchers and organisations for approved purposes is essential to create benefit to the people of Scotland that the use of these resources can bring, but we must ensure individual’s confidentiality and privacy is maintained.

“The Operational Framework will support data controllers in Scotland to develop robust processes allowing quicker and improved access to data. This will in turn benefit the Scottish population through increased understanding of its needs, how best to meet these and increased economic and innovation activity.”

Funding to support research by Scottish SMEs

In alignment with the Scottish Government’s Life Sciences Strategy for Scotland, RDS will run a pilot Accelerator Award to support Scotland-based SMEs (Small to Medium-sized Enterprises) to undertake research in the public benefit. The Scottish Government is providing RDS with £200,000 to support SMEs that identify an opportunity to use public sector data to develop innovative products in the Life Sciences sector.

Through the award, successful SMEs will be provided with hands-on expertise to identify, curate, deliver and help analyse data, drawing in capabilities in AI as required. The pilot Accelerator Award will enable RDS and the Scottish Government to test the implementation of the Operational Framework and support research that improves the lives of people living in Scotland.

More information will be announced later this year. To stay up to date with future updates, subscribe to our email newsletter.

Discover private sector impact

Alongside the Operational Framework, RDS has published a series of case studies which bring to life the benefits of streamlining private sector access to data and some of the potential benefits to the population of Scotland.

Click here to explore the case studies.