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What is a Secure Data Environment?

NHS data goes beyond patient care – it is vital for advancing medical research and enhancing services to improve healthcare outcomes.

To ensure NHS data is used transparently, efficiently, and securely, the Data Saves Lives strategy was launched in June 2022. At the heart of this strategy is the NHS Research Secure Data Environment network, which is funded by the Data for R&D programme.

Storing data in the SDE network enables the NHS to allow approved researchers with approved projects to access the necessary minimum NHS healthcare data without it leaving the environment. Analysis takes place within the SDE platform, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality with the highest standards of privacy and security.

About the NHS Research SDE Network

The NHS Research Secure Data Environment (SDE) Network consists of 12 SDEs dedicated to securely store and provide access to healthcare data. This network includes the NHS England SDE and 11 Sub National SDEs.

The NHS England Secure Data Environment (SDE) is the national SDE developed by NHS Digital. It is to become a key platform to access England-wide NHS health and social care data for research into diseases and conditions affecting the population.

The sub-national Secure Data Environments (SDEs) are the regional SDEs that strengthen regional collaborations and successful research efforts. These SDEs provide timely and secure access to datasets of their responsible areas. Operating on a large scale, they maintain connections with local communities and data providers.

The sub-national SDEs ensure seamless integration with the NHS England SDE, creating a fully federated network of SDEs to function as a unified, NHS-wide instrument for research and innovation.

About the Yorkshire & Humber SDE

Watch how the NHS Research Secure Data Environment is powering world leading research