The UK Data Service has taken the Public Engagement in Data Research Initiative (PEDRI) Pledge, reflecting our commitment to responsible, transparent, and trustworthy data research and statistics.
As a trusted steward of economic, population, and social research data, the UK Data Service has a responsibility to ensure that data is preserved, curated, and made accessible in ways that support ethical and responsible use. This aligns with our wider mission to enable impactful social science research through trustworthy data, strong infrastructure, and strategic partnerships.
The PEDRI Pledge
Taking the PEDRI Pledge provides a useful framework for considering how public perspectives can inform data research where appropriate. It also supports our vision for data to contribute to better knowledge, stronger decision-making, and improved outcomes for society.
PEDRI brings together UK organisations working with data and statistics to share learning and improve practice around public engagement. Its Good Practice Standards support organisations in thinking carefully about how and when to involve people in data research, helping make engagement more inclusive, transparent, and meaningful.
Steve McEachern, Director of the UK Data Service, said: “The UK Data Service is pleased to have taken the PEDRI Pledge as part of our ongoing commitment to responsible and impactful data use. Public trust is central to the work we do, and the pledge provides a useful framework for thinking about how data research can continue to reflect transparency, accountability, and public benefit.”
Trust, transparency, and responsible practice
For the Service, the pledge offers an opportunity to build on existing engagement work and learn from a wider community of organisations working in this space. It supports our ongoing efforts to ensure that research using our data is handled with care, reflects good practice, and contributes to public benefit.
Jo Webb, Associate Director of Business Strategy, Operations and Communications at the UK Data Service, said: “Delivering the pledge means using the PEDRI Good Practice Standards as a guide for our approach. We will continue to consider where public engagement can add value, work with partners to share learning, and ensure that our data stewardship remains grounded in trust, transparency, and responsible practice.”
By taking the PEDRI Pledge, the Service is reaffirming its role as a trusted data infrastructure and its commitment to supporting data research that works in the public interest.
More information
Read more about the Public Engagement in Data Research Initiative (PEDRI) and how it supports good practice in public involvement and engagement.
If your organisation is interested in strengthening trust, transparency, and public benefit in data research, you can explore how to take the PEDRI Pledge and join a growing community working to improve practice.