Real World Data Access Supported by Data Connect

Data Connect: enabling RWD access for the Sheffield Evaluation Hub

Data Connect is a partner of the Sheffield Evaluation Hub to support their knowledge exchange activities in the identification, access and use of real-world data (RWD). Data Connect is a University of Sheffield service to improve researcher access to health and social care data enhancing research capability and driving innovation. Data Connect supports secure, single point of access to data held in the University’s highly accredited, cloud-based Secure Data Service, or via other Secure Data Environments dependent upon requirements. Researchers can request access to bespoke health and social care datasets, and a suite of wraparound services provides support to researchers across the research lifecycle including finding appropriate datasets, navigating information governance, and technical support; see also: www.sheffield.ac.uk/data-connect 

We provide technical, legal and administrative support to identify, and then apply for and access RWD. We provide this support to knowledge exchange activities that involve the Sheffield Evaluation Hub and University of Sheffield staff in general.

We use a diverse team with experience in project and data management, and technical skills that can be applied across disciplines. We work closely with regional and national organisations to deliver an excellent service that meets the needs of our researchers and our community.

We specialise in access and knowledge of real-world data, particularly in the UK, to aid project planning, applying and accessing RWD, and supporting connections between data-users and data-providers.

We understand the complexities in identifying, applying, and then accessing RWD to support research and knowledge exchange activities.