National Data Guardian sets out priorities to 2027 as NHS data reforms gather pace

The National Data Guardian Dr Nicola Byrne said her remaining term will focus on supporting major national data programmes, strengthening public trust, and ensuring transparency and safeguards as the NHS undergoes significant digital and structural change.

In her 2024–25 annual report , Dr Byrne said she will concentrate on supporting the implementation of several major national programmes - including the Health Data Research Service, the Single Patient Record, the Federated Data Platform, and the modernisation of the Control of Patient Information (COPI) Regulations - ensuring each is delivered in ways the public can understand and accept. Ongoing reforms including the Government’s 10 Year Health Plan and the abolition of NHS England also presented information governance challenges, she added.

Dr Byrne also committed to strengthening public engagement, improving information governance guidance, and reducing unnecessary bureaucracy that prevents safe and effective data use. Cyber resilience and organisational preparedness will remain central themes.

Dr Byrne said her office will continue to champion clarity, inclusivity and ethical data use across the system, emphasising that trust must be earned and maintained as the NHS becomes increasingly data driven.

The National Data Guardian (NDG) is an independent statutory adviser to the Government and to the health and adult social care system in England, to ensure that people’s confidential health and care information is used safely and ethically while maintaining public trust.

The Guardian Issues formal guidance that organisations must “have regard to” under the Health and Social Care (National Data Guardian) Act 2018 but does not have investigative or enforcement powers. Dr Byrne's tenureship of the post extends to 2027.