UK Statistics Authority Inclusive Data Consultation

Closed 26 Mar 2021

Opened 5 Jan 2021

Feedback updated 28 Sep 2021

We asked

The UK Statistics Authority/ONS Inclusive Data Consultation was open to the public from 5 January to 26 March 2021 (12 weeks). The purpose aligned with the UKSA strategy, Statistics for the Public Good, and supported the work of the Inclusive Data Taskforce to ensure that: “…our statistics, [analysis and publications] reflect the experiences of everyone in our society so that everyone counts, and is counted, and no one is forgotten.” (Statistics for the Public Good, 2020).

 

We consulted to gain views on what was needed to improve inclusivity of UK data and evidence, where the gaps are or where data and evidence are currently lacking or partial (topics, quality), and where further work is needed. We also sought views on where to make improvements and what is currently working well.

You said

The consultation received 185 total responses. These consisted of:

  • 100 responses from individuals
  • 83 responses from organisations
  • 2 responses did not identify whether they were an individual or an organisation.

Of the responses received from organisations, ‘Charity and voluntary sector’ organisations provided the majority, 32 responses (38.6%). A further 14 responses (16.9%) were from ‘Local authority’ organisations and 11 (13.3%) were from ‘Academic/research’ organisations. There were 8 responses (9.6%) from ‘Government departments’ and 6 responses (7.2%) from ‘Public body’ organisations. Other organisations that responded included campaigning/lobby groups, unions, IT professionals, engineering/design, education, health and social care. 

We did

The findings from this consultation have been used alongside other evidence gathered to inform the recommendations of the Inclusive Data Taskforce on improving the UK’s inclusive data holdings and infrastructure.

The recommendations, including a full analysis of responses received, can be found here.

Overview

ONS is undertaking a review of how inclusive data and evidence are across the UK. This is in keeping with our new strategy, Statistics for the Public Good, and will help to support the work of the Inclusive Data Taskforce .

Ultimately, we want to ensure that “…our statistics, [analysis and publications] reflect the experiences of everyone in our society so that everyone counts, and is counted, and no one is forgotten.” (Statistics for the Public Good, 2020).

We need your help in understanding what you need, where the gaps are and where further work is needed.

Why your views matter

The findings of this review will be considered by the Inclusive Data Taskforce in making their recommendations to the National Statistician on what needs to change in future and how this can be achieved. The National Statistician will consider the recommendations in deciding how best to make progress towards the aim of more inclusive data and evidence in the UK.

In this review, we’d like your views on where data and evidence are currently lacking or partial. This may be in terms of the quality of what is available, topics covered, geographical coverage or areas where data and evidence are missing completely. We would also welcome your suggestions about where to make improvements and what is currently working well.

How to respond

We encourage you to respond online wherever possible. However, responses by email will be also be accepted.

Please scroll to the bottom of this page or see here for a downloadable list of the consultation questions, should you wish to provide your comments by email. If you are responding by email, please send your response to: ONS.Consultations@ons.gov.uk

Accessibility

All material relating to this consultation can be provided in braille, large print or audio formats on request. British Sign Language interpreters can also be requested for any supporting events.

 

Audiences

  • Anyone from any background

Interests

  • Business
  • Crime
  • Economy
  • Health
  • Labour market
  • Migration
  • Population
  • Statistics
  • Data
  • Formal consultations
  • Surveys