In March, the ONS updated users of the Secure Research Service (SRS) on the latest plans to transition to the Integrated Data Service (IDS). We explained that we would close the front door to new project applications and new datasets at the end of September 2024, with the service running down until March 2026.

ONS has made big strides over the past few months with the development of the IDS. However, following a review of the IDS’ readiness to meet SRS user needs in June, the Integrated Data Programme (IDP) Board made the decision to remove the previously communicated dates.

We are committed to ensuring continuity of research throughout the transition to the IDS. To ensure this happens, we have been conducting regular reviews of both data availability and IDS capability in preparation for the closure of the SRS. To that end:

• The SRS will now continue to accept new project applications beyond the end of September 2024
• The established project triage process will continue to re-direct any new SRS projects to IDS as and when appropriate.
• The ONS will continue to review progress on the development of the IDS, and its readiness to meet SRS user needs, before setting out new timescales.

What’s next?

Whilst we recognise the need to run the SRS for an extended period, a full transition to the IDS remains the goal of the ONS.

We will continue to monitor the progress of IDS development, regularly reviewing this against SRS users’ needs. The date for closure of the front door and SRS de-commissioning will only be agreed when IDS readiness is confirmed.

In the meantime, the established project triage process will continue, where all new project applications are assessed for their suitability to begin in the IDS where the capability and data is available to do so. An equivalent triage process for new datasets will also be implemented.

We will be holding our next IDS event for SRS users and stakeholders in September, where we will provide a further update on our progress and share the latest timelines. Look out for an invitation to this event being issued very soon.

Thank you for your continued engagement and interest with our communications around the transition, and for your ongoing feedback which is helping to shape the IDS.