Data Access Request Service (DARS) guidance

We've developed a range of materials to help you make the most of our Data Access Request Service (DARS).

Log in to DARS online 

Contact us

If you wish to discuss your requirements and to obtain a login, please email: [email protected]

NHS Digital has produced guidance on the information expected in the various sections of a DARS application, named ‘Standards’.

For each ‘Standard’ there is written guidance covering important items to consider when writing your application and, where available, an accompanying video, both accessible via the table below.

All organisations that gain approval to receive data from NHS Digital are subject to the terms set out within a specific Data Sharing Agreement (DSA) and the Data Sharing Framework Contract (DSFC). There may be an occasion when an organisation believes that they have not acted in accordance with these terms. In these circumstances it is important that the organisation acts immediately, to firstly control/stop the activity and then to contact the Data Access Request Service. NHS Digital will provide a confirmation receipt of this contact, so if you do not receive one please contact DARS directly (as per section 4.1.8 of the DSFC). You may also be required to undertake additional actions as outlined within the Data Security Protection Toolkit (DSPT).

In such circumstances NHS Digital will look to establish the details of what has happened, whether this constitutes a breach of agreement, the level of seriousness and what actions should be taken.

Ultimately a breach of the agreement(s) could result in the need to destroy the data held and the termination of the DSA and the DSFC. This is clearly a position that all would wish to avoid, and DARS are keen to work with organisations to ensure they fully understand and meet their obligations.

Please note that an organisation also has obligations to notify the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) in specific circumstances. Notifying NHS Digital does not remove those obligations which exist separately and must be complied with.