Scotland Talks Data: Public Panel
Our Scotland Talks Data Panel helps to inform our research and the use of public sector data in Scotland, keeping public good at the heart of what we do.
We established the panel in 2019 and since 2023 have jointly hosted it with Research Data Scotland (RDS) to allow it to grow in membership and activities. The panel consists of approximately 20 members of the public from across Scotland, from a variety of different backgrounds and lived experience of a range of issues covered in our research.
What does the panel do?
The online panel consists of members of the public from across Scotland with different backgrounds and lived experience of a range of issues that our research covers. They help our researchers and partners to better understand the views the public hold about the use of public sector data for research.
Being part of the public panel involves:
- Discussing different research proposals
- Advising on issues including around public trust and acceptability
- Helping us to better communicate what we do
- Informing how we engage the public
The Scotland Talks Data Panel is managed by Janice Murray (SCADR), Katie Oldfield and Rachel Edwards (both at Research Data Scotland).
What topics have the panel discussed?
Panel topics cover all aspects of the data journey. The panel are involved in:
- Discussing different research proposals
- Advising on issues including around public trust and acceptability
- Helping researchers and ADR Scotland to communicate work in a clear and accessible manner
- Informing further public engagement and our approach
The 'Scotland Talks Data' panel meets five times a year, dates for 2026-27:
- Monday 29 June 2026, 12pm – 2pm
- Monday 28 September 2026, 5pm – 7pm
- Tuesday 17 November 2026, 5pm – 7pm
- Saturday 23 January 2027, 10am – 12pm
Further details of the topics discussed are listed on the Research Data Scotland website.
What's it like being on our panel?
It was inspiring to learn about the impactful work being led by research centers and institutions across Scotland, and to contribute with insights from a public perspective. I would love to see initiatives like this replicated in other regions.
Former panel member
Interesting and educational in highlighting how complex systems of testing can be and how importantly confidentiality and best practise are taken. A lot of work behind the scenes which the general public are never fully aware of! A really positive experience overall.Former panel member
Panel news
- October 2022 - Blog: Public engagement through our public panel
- October 2022 - Public dialogue report: Exploring public perceptions of the 'public good' use of data for research
- March 2023 - New co-hosts for public panel
- October 2023 - Blog: Developing and re-shaping our public panel
- February 2024 - Blog: Ensuring a public voice in data research
- May 2025 - Impact Report of the Scotland Talks Data public panel
How can I get involved?
In order to recruit a diverse range of people from across Scotland, our current panel was recruited via a postcode lottery through an organisation called Sortition. Please contact us if you'd like to find out more or get involved.
