The UK Data Service is pleased to have become an official partner with PEDRI (the Public Engagement in Data Research Initiative), which has been funded by the ESRC to unite different UK organisations working with data and statistics to improve how they all work with the public.
The focus of this work will include:
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Promoting good practices and creating guides for better public involvement, plus engagement in data research.
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Championing activities that build trust, through creating inclusive approaches that enable the data science sector and the public to come together.
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Co-producing projects and engagement tools with the public.
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Helping people working with data to improve their public involvement and engagement skills.
Other high profile partners that have joined PEDRI include: ADR UK (Administrative Data Research UK), DARE UK (Data and Analytics Research Environments UK), HDR UK (Health Data Research UK), ONS (Office for National Statistics), Smart Data Research UK, UKLLC (the UK Longitudinal Linkage Collaboration) , Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation Data Science Centre.
Over the last year, PEDRI has been collecting and curating a wide range of tools, guidance and information to build a new Resources hub.
It now has over 100 pieces of tools and guidance available for people to use, thanks to funding from DARE UK.
These tools include:
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A searchable directory of public involvement groups interested in data science and statistics, helping researchers connect with public members early in project design.
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Improved search functionality within the resource hub, making it easier to find exactly what you need.
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Co-created, CPD-accredited online learning modules, developed with community representatives and designed for professionals in data and statistics. These modules will provide practical guidance on applying the PEDRI Good Practice Standards, discussing sensitive data topics, and evaluating impact.
New focus groups have been formed to test long-term benefits of these online learning modules, to make sure they are relevant to people involved in PEDRI’s community.
Throughout 2026, PEDRI will also deliver at least six webinars, which will cover a wide range of topics, such as:
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Strengthening public partnerships in data research and statistics projects.
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Empowering young voices, to involve children and young people in data research.
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Introducing arts-based approaches to data engagement.
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Demystifying data linking for public engagement.
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Engaging the public with Information Governance.
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Exploring the problem with public engagement in Artificial Intelligence.