Office for National Statistics: 2026-2031 investment

As we move further into the new ADR UK funding period, the Office for National Statistics (ONS)’s focus will be on strengthening the Secure Research Service (SRS) as a key part of the UK's research infrastructure, supporting safe and secure access to administrative data at scale. 

Improving the researcher experience

Building on strong foundations, we will continue to improve the researcher experience, expand access to high-value data and support research that informs policy and delivers public benefit.

A priority for the year ahead will be enabling sustainable growth across the service. This includes continuing to enhance the Project Application Service for SRS (PASS), improving data discovery and access processes, streamlining researcher journeys and embedding service improvements that reduce administrative burden while maintaining robust governance and security standards. Alongside this, we will further strengthen engagement with researchers, data owners and strategic partners through the SRS Advisory Group, Strategic Governance Board and the newly branded annual SRS Conference.

Expanding data available through the SRS

The ONS will also continue to expand the range of data available through the SRS, including the delivery of priority linked datasets such as the Linked Employer–Employee Dataset and the Kids’ Environment and Health Cohort. Working closely with ADR UK-funded government departments and data owners, we will seek to maximise the value of existing data assets while enabling new opportunities for data linkage and research.

Monitoring emerging technologies

Finally, we will continue to assess emerging technology options for the SRS to ensure the platform remains scalable, flexible and fit for purpose, supporting the next generation of administrative data research and helping researchers tackle some of society's most important challenges.