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Research Data Scotland 2025-26 Business Plan and Safe Haven Charter

  • May 6
  • 2 min read
Research Data Scotland (RDS) Logo

Research Data Scotland (RDS) is an independent charity established in 2021 by the Scottish Government. RDS collaborates with organisations in Scotland and the UK to enhance the data research system, aiming to improve lives through research and evidence-based decisions. They facilitate access to health, social care, and administrative data, making it easier for researchers to address societal challenges.


RDS Business Plan 2025-2026


RDS recently unveiled its ambitious new business plan for 2025-26, marking a significant step forward in its mission to enhance health and social wellbeing in Scotland. This plan outlines key priorities aimed at simplifying data access, fostering collaboration, and ensuring a sustainable research ecosystem.


The plan focuses on these key areas:


  • Aligning Approaches: RDS aims to unify Scotland's research infrastructure, making it easier for researchers to access and utilise public sector data.

  • Building Trustworthiness: Emphasising transparency and security, RDS seeks to build and demonstrate trust in its data services.

  • Shaping Researcher Services: Enhancing the efficiency of data access processes to reduce delays and improve user experience.

  • Unlocking Scotland’s Data: Increasing the availability of Scottish datasets and facilitating innovative research through the Researcher Access Service.



RDS Safe Haven Charter Update


In addition to the business plan, RDS has also updated its Safe Haven Charter for the first time since 2015. This charter underpins the secure and ethical use of sensitive health data, ensuring that researchers can access and analyse data within a trusted framework.


The revised charter introduces five streamlined principles focused on:


  • Supporting Public Health: Enabling research that improves health services and treatments.

  • Ensuring Ethical Research: Adhering to high ethical standards and legal requirements.

  • Protecting Privacy: Implementing robust measures to safeguard patient identity and privacy.

  • Facilitating High-Quality Research: Providing access to comprehensive data sets within secure platforms.

  • Promoting Collaboration: Encouraging collaborative research efforts across Scotland and the UK.


These updates reflect RDS's commitment to advancing health and social care research while maintaining public trust and integrity.


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