A data use register (also known as a data release register or list of approved projects) offers the public a clear record of how their data is being used, by whom, and for what purpose.

Data use registers are a key component of improving transparency and trust in the use of health data for research. They allow patients and members of the public to see and feel confident in how patient data is being requested. They are also very useful for researchers and funders to see what datasets have been made available for research.

The Data Use Register is publicly available to view on the Health Data Research Gateway.

View the data use register

Infographic from explaining the benefits of the Health Data Research Gateway data use register. The top section states that the register shows how datasets are being used, by whom, and for what purpose. The benefits listed include: automated process for notifying data custodians about dataset use, closing the loop on impact by linking data use to research outcomes, alignment to the Five Safes Framework for secure and beneficial data use, and implementing best practice with a national standard for data use registers. The bottom provides a URL for more information.
Infographic outlining the benefits that the Gateway data use register offers.

The UK Health Data Research Alliance (the ‘Alliance’) is leading work to improve transparency in health data use by developing and promoting a standard for data use registers, ensuring they are consistent, accessible, and trusted by the public, researchers, and policymakers.

Learn more about data use registers and the Alliance’s work in this area

Want to stay up to date?

If you would like to sign up to receive more communications about data use registers and the Gateway, please sign up to the Gateway newsletter below.