Administrative data, collected through the delivery of public services, offers valuable, real-world insight into how society functions. When used responsibly, it can help answer important research questions, inform policy decisions and improve public services and outcomes.
Only researchers with the appropriate accreditation can get access to administrative data through a Trusted Research Environment. In Scotland, researchers wishing to access data in Scotland's National Safe Haven must complete Safe Researcher Training (SRT). The SRT course also forms part of the procedure for gaining full accredited researcher status under the Digital Economy Act (DEA), which is a requirement for access to other Trusted Research Environments such as the ONS Secure Research Service.
There are two providers for the SRT course:
- The Office for National Statistics (ONS), where the SRT forms part of the process to become an accredited researcher
- and the UK Data Service.
There is a wide range of skills-based training and specific dataset training across the UK, all collated on the ADR UK training courses page.
ADR Scotland offers two core skill-based courses:
- Introduction to Administrative Data Research and Analysis (IADRA): A comprehensive introduction to working with administrative data.
- Data Quality Aspects of Administrative Data: Exploring how technical, social and legal dimensions of data collection and processing can impact the quality of administrative data available for research.
How to access data
Accessing administrative data can be complex, and requirements vary depending on the dataset and data controller.
For step-by-step guidance on accessing data in Scotland, visit our data access page.
The ADR UK Data Catalogue is a useful starting point for discovering datasets available for public good research across the UK, including flagship administrative data resources.
Who to work with in Scotland
If you are starting out, the following organisations and networks can provide support:
Scottish Longitudinal Study Development and Support Unit (SLS-DSU)
Provides data access, training, and expert guidance.
Early Career Researchers Using Scottish Administrative Data (eCRUSADers)
A peer-led network of early career researchers sharing knowledge and experiences of working with administrative data in Scotland.
Visit the ADR UK Learning Hub
You can also build your skills through our Learning Hub, which supports researchers across sectors and disciplines. It includes getting started guidance for new users of administrative data, skills and resources to use administrative data, and information on user groups and communities.
