Take the Lead: New micro-grants for community-led health data activities
We're launching new micro-grants to help communities explore how health data can support health and wellbeing, in ways that matter to them.
Health data can be used in lots of different ways.
Scientists might use health data from the National Health Service (NHS) to develop new treatments and understand diseases. A group of friends might use health data from their fitness watches to compete in a step challenge. An artist might use health data from a community survey as inspiration for a mural. What could you use health data for?
Today we have launched our new Take the Lead community micro-grants which support communities to explore and engage with health data in ways that suit them. It’s the first time we are offering grants directly to community organisations and groups and we can’t wait to see what people come up with.
Cassie Smith, Director of Legal, Trust and Ethics at Health Data Research UK, said:
“Trust is built when communities are not just consulted, but empowered as co-creators. Take the Lead uses art, storytelling, and local events to invite people to engage with health data in ways that reflect their own values and lived experiences. It’s about making data meaningful, accessible, and deeply connected to the everyday lives of those it represents.”
Community groups and organisations across the UK working with one or more of the following under-served audiences can apply for up to £1500 to deliver a standalone project, event or series of activities showcasing how data can support health and wellbeing between 12th January to 8th April 2026:
- People from low socio-economic backgrounds
- People from minority ethnic backgrounds
- Older children and young adults aged between 11-25 (particularly in areas of deprivation)
- People aged over 65 (particularly in areas of deprivation)
- People living in rural areas (defined as a settlement of less than 10,000 people in England and Wales, less than 5,000 people in Northern Ireland and less than 3,000 people in Scotland)
- People experiencing digital exclusion
Mohammed Rahman, Public Contributor and Community Advisor for Take the Lead, said:
“Health Data Research UK is the national institute for health data science, working to ensure it is used in transparent and trustworthy ways to accelerate research, improve care, and inform policy. I’m getting involved to help all communities understand what health data is, build confidence in how it is used, and ensure everyone can engage with and benefit from it.”
Interested in applying?
The deadline for applications is Monday 13 October at 5pm BST.
Register now for our online information session on Thursday 11 September at 2pm BST.
We strongly encourage anyone considering applying to get in touch with involvement@hdruk.ac.uk to discuss their ideas. We will do our best to respond as soon as possible, although queries sent in close to the deadline may not be answered in time.
Find out more about our Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement strategy and how Take the Lead fits into it. To receive public involvement and engagement updates join the HDR UK Voices mailing list.
