Abstract

This briefing paper shares learning from two projects undertaken by the University of Sunderland and partners which attempted to link local administrative data with paediatric community health data in Sunderland. The linked dataset was to be used as the basis of two service evaluations. Project 1 investigates the extent to which children with learning disabilities are consistently identified and have their needs assessed and documented across services. Project 2 looks at the risk factors that may underpin school exclusions and suspensions. The challenges to the projects included complex information governance arrangements, changes to the health systems in England, and data processing capacity in the local authority. Enablers included strong local partnerships, intricate knowledge of data sharing and protection protocols, and strong motivation and persistence among project partners.