GM Secure Data Environment (SDE) - Accessing the SDE

SDE-to-SDE Data Sharing

Why we share data across Secure Data Environments (SDEs)

To support specific research projects that have been approved through rigorous review, our Secure Data Environment (SDE) may share information with other NHS SDEs. This enables researchers to answer important health questions using data from different regions, especially where local data alone may be insufficient (e.g. rare disease research).

These collaborations aim to deliver clear public benefit and avoid duplication.

How we protect your privacy

We only share data for projects that have been approved by a Data Access Committee (DAC), which includes patient and public representatives. Before sharing, we remove direct identifiers such as name or NHS number. The data is transferred securely using encrypted systems.

If you have opted out of sharing your data for research and planning, your information will not be included.

Transparency

Each SDE’s Data Use Register will be updated with details of the project, so you can see how data is being used.

For any enquiries, please email [email protected]