Administrative data is created when people use public services, such as schools, the NHS, the courts or the benefits system and is collated by government. It also includes basic information about people, including registrations of births, deaths and marriages, the electoral register, and national censuses.
Public bodies keep these records to run services effectively, carry out day-to-day work, monitor performance, and improve how they operate.
Across the UK, administrative data remains a largely underused but highly valuable resource. When accessed securely by accredited researchers, it can offer powerful insights into society and help identify where improvements or policy changes may be needed.
Why is better access to administrative data so important for research?
Access to de-identified administrative data is highly valuable for research, offering a more accurate and comprehensive picture of UK society than would otherwise be possible from other collection types.
While no dataset is perfect, administrative data captures information on everyone who engages with public services, avoiding barriers such as participation bias often found in surveys.
The greatest benefit from using administrative data in research, comes from linking data created by one government department or public service to that from others. Linking data from across government is the essence of ADR UK and ADR Scotland’s work. It enables researchers to study how different aspects of life interact with one another, enhancing our understanding of society and where change is needed to make a meaningful difference.
Financial benefits to using administrative data for research
In November 2025, an independent mid-term evaluation of the ADR UK programme estimated that we deliver a benefit-cost ratio of 5.05 – meaning every £1 spent generates over £5 in benefits.
Using interviews, case studies, surveys, and economic analysis, the report finds that ADR UK’s cost savings and projected socio-economic impacts significantly outweigh its costs.
