Title: UK Census Longitudinal Study Development Hub
Funder: Economic and Social Research Council

Abstract: The work of the development hub will involve the following work packages. 1. Actively take steps to drive forward the ambition of a UK Longitudinal Study Initially, the Hub will build on existing exploratory work on the use of E-Datashield methods to allow analyses to be undertaken that mimic a situation where separate datasets are pooled. To build on the long-term goal of a UKLS, the Hub would develop code to produce 'UKLS variables', and research the implications of using closely matched variables where no exact match exists. Together with the RSUs the Hub discuss with the relevant statistical agencies the possibility of support unit's holding data from other LSes. 2. Promote the impact of the Census Longitudinal Studies The Hub will promote impact by encouraging data citation and raising awareness of outputs and impacts of research. Impact case studies will be conducted on a sample of projects from each RSU. The Hub would also work with the RSUs to organise seminars and workshops showcasing LS-based research to targeted external audiences. 3. Deliver a single portal function providing the 'front door' to the Census Longitudinal Studies The Hub will provide a first point of access for LS researchers, primarily by providing a main website for the UKLS which would give a broad introduction to each of the LS and links to the relevant parts of the three RSU websites. 4. Harmonise online tools, documentation and guidance, where possible The Hub will work together with the RSUs to co-ordinate a more unified structure and design for their individual websites, as far as appropriate. Through discussions with the management group of RSU directors and statistical agency representatives, efforts would be made to harmonise documentation, application methods and guidance for users. 5. Deliver a single helpdesk for responding to generic queries A more streamlined LS service would be further developed by the provision of a first point of contact for generic LS queries. This helpdesk would respond promptly to email and telephone enquiries, redirecting individuals to specific LS teams where appropriate. 6. Plan and co-ordinate training and outreach activities with a particular focus on reaching new users, in collaboration with Unit Directors and the UK Data Service Outreach and training events would be co-ordinated across units in order to economically promote the RSUs to a wider audience. Pooling information on attendees to such events would also allow more targeted follow-up and make it easier to identify research groups who may not yet have been targeted as potential users. 7. Engage with other related organisations in the UK and overseas to stimulate the most efficient delivery of the service The Hub will work closely with RSUs and the new UK Data service to ensure synergies are exploited and duplications of work avoided. It will be ensured that information sources effectively cross-reference the different services. The possibility of a unified researcher training package will also be explored. The Hub will act as a facilitator of work between the three RSUs and the UK Beyond 2011 Population Statistics Programme, encouraging discussions on alternative options for producing population and socio-demographic data. 8. Develop and maintain a distinctive identity of the service, in collaboration with the UK Data Service By working towards the above aims of harmonising the three LS, the Hub will effectively create and build upon a distinctive identity. This will be further enhanced by the creation of a logo and dedicated Hub website. The possibility of having a single website for all RSUs would also be explored. The Hub would seek to facilitate collaboration between the RSUs and the UK Data Service on areas of shared interest. 9. the Hub will establish and manage a Scientific Advisory Network, consisting of external stakeholders from the academic, public and private sectors.


Research activity codes: 2.6 RESOURCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE (AETIOLOGY);1.5 RESOURCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE (UNDERPINNING)
Health categories: GENERIC HEALTH RELEVANCE