Developing New Hubs
A key component of our mission to unite the UK’s health data has been the development of a unique, collaborative model for health data research - a series of unique, specialist Health Data Research Hubs.
These “Hubs” are centres of excellence with expertise, tools, knowledge and ways of working to maximise the insights and innovations developed from health data.
The Hubs partnership model draws together leading expertise in research, technology and health data science from the National Health Service, academia, medical research and industry; to provide bespoke services for users of health data.
So far, our Hubs have achieved substantial impact across a number of critical areas, including cancer, mental health and acute care. In 2021, two new Hubs were established in the field of Pain and Mental Health.
The next phase – replicating the Hubs model
Based on the successful Hubs model and the incredible potential to improve health and care across more areas, Health Data Research is working with potential leads, funders and commercial organisations to develop new Hubs.
We are currently developing Hub concepts in several areas, including surgery and maternal health. HDR UK has also recently completed a design and dialogue programme on behalf of three funders (the Economic and Social Research Council, the Medical Research Council and Wellcome) to scope how UK longitudinal population studies (studies that track groups of individuals over time) could be supported by a data Hub.
To support their development, HDR UK has created a playbook and set of resources to support the efficient established of new Hubs.
Working with potential Hub leads
If you are interested in leading a new Health Data Hub, we will provide a structured design process including concept, operations, staffing requirements, ways of working and public and patient involvement to develop a compelling case to approach potential funders.
Working with funders
We work in partnership with research funders to design and deliver funding calls that deliver new Hubs to support funding strategy HDR UK can also play an active role in the management and delivery of the new Hub, ensuring that the Hub delivers intended impacts. Hubs can be focused on a single disease; and we also welcome interest for Hubs on cross-disease topics or types of data.
Working with industry and commercial organisations
To date, Health Data Research Hubs have delivered over 100 projects for industry. To deepen our partnerships with industry, we encourage expressions of interest to co-design new Hubs and solutions for new areas to provide services that will enable data-led research, insights and improve patient outcomes.
Getting in touch
Dr James Pickett, our dedicated Hub Development Manager, provides support, expertise and introductions within HDR UK and across the data and research sector. If you are interested in working with HDR UK to develop a new Health Data Hub, please contact James to find out more: james.pickett@hdruk.ac.uk