What is a Secure Data Environment?

A Secure Data Environment (SDE) is a controlled system where health data is stored and accessed safely for research and analysis. Instead of sharing data directly with researchers or organisations, the data stays within the secure environment, and approved users access it under strict security rules. 

Key points about Secure Data Environments:

  • Data does not leave the environment - researchers work within the system rather than receiving copies of the data
  • Data is de-identified before access - this means personal information is removed or obscured to protect privacy
  • Strict security controls - only approved users can access the data, and their activity is monitored
  • Used for research, planning, and improving healthcare - the data helps scientists and policymakers make better decisions about health

These environments are designed to protect patient information while allowing important research that can improve healthcare for everyone​. 

The NHS in Lancashire and South Cumbria is transforming research to ensure local people receive the best possible health and care services.

The Lancashire and South Cumbria Secure Data Environment (SDE) is a cutting-edge platform that securely stores and integrates health and care data from GP practices, hospitals, community and mental health services, and social care.

This powerful resource will be used by health, care, and research professionals to plan services, drive innovation, and conduct life-changing research.

By harnessing our health data effectively, the Lancashire and South Cumbria SDE will enhance patient care, accelerate diagnoses, and fast-track the development of new treatments—because data-driven healthcare isn’t just the future, it’s the key to saving lives today.

Patient data is already used in research, but Secure Data Environments will standardise this process to make it more efficient and improve data security.

The Lancashire and South Cumbria SDE brings together information from several important areas of health and care within Lancashire and South Cumbria, including:

  • GP Practices
  • Social care
  • Community services
  • Hospital services
  • Mental health services
  • Ambulance services

You can decide how your data is shared.

You can allow your data to be used for all, some or no research and planning purposes. Below are the different options available to you.

  • You are happy for your data to be used for care, research and planning. 
    You do not need to do anything if you want your health and care information to support research and planning through the Lancashire and South Cumbria SDE.
  • You don’t want your data to be used for research and planning in Lancashire and South Cumbria, but you’re happy for it to be used nationally.
    If you do not want your data to be used for local research projects, you can use the local data opt-out service by calling 01253953057.
  • You want to stop your GP practice sharing your data for research and planning, but you’re happy for hospitals and other providers to do this.
    If you do not want personal, confidential data held by your GP practice to be used for purposes beyond your care, you can register a ‘Type 1 opt-out’. To do this you can download a Type 1 opt-out form and return it to your GP practice. This would not apply to hospitals and other healthcare providers that could still use your information for research and planning. You can find out more on the NHS England website.
  • You don’t want your data to be used for any research and planning.
    If you want to stop your data being used for research and planning purposes, you can use the national data opt-out service. This opt-out can be viewed or changed at any time on the NHS England website.
  • You don’t want your data to be shared for care, research and planning.
    If you do not want your data being shared at all, you can raise a General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) – Right to Object with your GP practice. You have a right to object at any time, but please think carefully before doing this. This option would stop healthcare professionals viewing your records from other services. This could delay vital information being available if you need health or social care support – for example, during a visit to an Emergency Department. Your data would still be recorded by services as part of your direct care. Your GP practice has the right not to action your request should they feel it is not in your best interest.