UK LLC provides a data linkage resource to their partner studies and offers the research community a clear and efficient route to accessing linked longitudinal data. The award, which runs until the end of 2028, will allow UK LLC to cement its position as a unique research resource, enabling cross-sector working and supporting research responses to immediate situations and future policy needs.
Professor Nic Timpson, Principal Investigator at Children of the 90s, said "We were delighted to learn of the support allocated to the Longitudinal Linkage Collaboration (LLC). The LLC is an important step forward in the world of longitudinal population studies, providing a safe and participant-facing approach to the challenge of bringing the UK's amazing cohort studies, surveys and other resources together around secure access to data.
“The effort has been set up following a long process of learning in our studies and experience and following the step-changes made during the pandemic. The UK has a rich collection of research resources and volunteer led studies and the LLC offers a real chance to generate synergy between them. We wish everyone in the team all the best of luck and are glad to be part of the effort."
Further information
Through a single application process, UK LLC provides bona fide researchers with secure access to a centralised, rapid, streamlined process to use longitudinal population study data systematically linked to detailed NHS and environmental data – with employment, earnings, benefits and education records due to be added for eligible studies. Expansion of this streamlined process will enhance data integration and navigation for users.
UK LLC’s work is based on a national Trusted Research Environment (TRE) approach that helps ensure that data they hold is secure, transparent and subject to the ‘Five Safes’ set of safeguards. The partnership includes a strong public contribution, with members of the public and study participants informing their decision making and design. Working within a TRE is designed to address concerns raised in study participant engagement and public dialogues about the use of linked data and to be seen as trustworthy.