What is a secure data environment for research?

Secure data environments (SDEs) are computer platforms that are used for research and analysis and uphold the highest standards of privacy and security of NHS health and social care data.

The KMS SDE allows approved, appropriately trained researchers from validated organisations to apply to securely access and analyse de-identified (pseudonymised) health and social care data from across Kent, Medway and Sussex.

To access the data, researchers must:

  • be an approved user
  • be from an approved organisation
  • have appropriate information governance and cyber security training
  • have an approved project.

SDEs allow the NHS to control:

  • who can access the data
  • the data that researchers can access
  • what researchers can do with the data in the environment.

SDEs adhere to The Five Safes framework. This is a set of principles that enable data services to provide safe research access to data.

The NHS Research SDE Network

NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) have invested in the development of a network of 11 regional SDEs for research and development across England.

The network ensures there is secure access to health and social care data for approved research projects. These projects are led by academics, industry organisations or NHS employees such as clinical researchers. 

Find out more about the national programme.

The SDE vision

The KMS SDE enables researchers to access health and social care data safely and securely, enabling innovation for the benefit of patients, communities and the NHS.