June 2026 release note

Registration Service: limits

The Registration Service page has been updated to clarify the limits of registration. It confirms that registration is an administrative status that enables organisations to submit data access requests, and does not imply endorsement, accreditation, partnership, or active collaboration by the SDE Network or NHS England.

New blog published

A new blog by Sally Stewart (Programme Director, North West Secure Data Environment) has been published, introducing the Registration Service and explaining how it streamlines the ‘Safe People’ component of the Five Safes framework. The blog also outlines how the service supports safer, more consistent access to data across the SDE Network, underpinned by public involvement and assurance.

New reports available in support and resources

2 new publications have been added to the Reports section:

• Data for R&D Programme Programme Evaluation Report – prepared by Starlight Digital Services Ltd as part of the GMPP completion process, this report provides an independent evaluation of the Data for Research and Development Programme which closed at the end of March 2026
• SDE Network Operational Readiness Report – this report summarises a review undertaken by the Data for R&D Programme to assess the progress and maturity of the SDE Network in summer 2025

These reports provide valuable insight into programme delivery, impact, and network-wide activity.

Background information relocated to support and resources

Background information relating to the SDE Network, NHS data, and Secure Data Environments, previously hosted within the NHS England Transformation Directorate pages, can now be found in the Background section of the Support and Resources page. This update helps ensure continued access to key information and resources.

Supporting researchers from discovery to completion

We are developing new user journey content to help researchers navigate the process from browsing and requesting data to conducting and concluding a project, providing clearer guidance at each stage.

SDE Network Acknowledgements and Publications Policy (SNAPPy)

We are preparing to pilot the SDE Network Acknowledgements and Publications Policy (SNAPPy). This guidance will support researchers and SDEs to consistently acknowledge data access, promoting good practice, and helping to build and maintain public trust in the use of health data for research.