What is the NHS Federated Data Platform?
The Federated Data Platform (FDP) is a national NHS system for bringing together and analysing data. It takes information from existing systems and places it in secure local environments. Authorised NHS staff can use it to understand information, plan services and make day-to-day operational decisions. Each participating NHS trust or integrated care board (ICB) has its own local version and decides how its data is used.
Does NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight ICB have the FDP?
Yes. The ICB’s local version was set up in August 2025. Authorised staff can use it if they need it for their job.
Which FDP tools does the ICB use?
The only tool currently available in the ICB’s local version is the Strategic Commissioning Tool (SCT). It became available in April 2026 and is still being assessed. The SCT helps the ICB analyse groups within the local population, including their level of health risk, to support service planning and commissioning. It does not currently include data from GP practices.
Does the ICB use other systems as well as the FDP?
Yes. The FDP is one of several systems we use to understand local health needs and plan services. Our analysts also use other trusted tools and sources of information, so we do not rely on the FDP alone.
What data is currently used in the ICB’s local version?
All data currently held in the ICB’s local FDP has been provided by NHS England. Before sharing it, NHS England used privacy technology to remove information that could identify individuals. No data from local GP practices or information that identifies people from any NHS trust has been used.
Who controls the data?
NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight ICB controls the information used in its local FDP. NHS England controls the information used in the national FDP. This means the ICB decides how information is used locally and is responsible for following data protection law.
Who can use the ICB’s local FDP?
Only authorised ICB staff who need the FDP for their job can use it. Access controls make sure each user can see only the information and tools they need for an approved purpose.
How is information kept safe?
The ICB uses privacy, security and information governance measures to protect information. These include checking data protection risks when needed, limiting access to approved purposes, keeping audit records and monitoring how the system is used. NHS England says that information in the FDP is encrypted when it is sent and stored. It is also protected by network security, logged, monitored and backed up regularly.
Does the FDP replace health records or automatically share all NHS data?
No. The FDP brings together approved information from existing systems for specific purposes. It does not automatically put all NHS data in one place or make it available to every user. Information can be accessed or shared only for an approved purpose and when there is a lawful reason to do so.
Who is responsible for the FDP contract?
NHS England manages the national FDP contract. Please send any questions about the contract to NHS England.
Where can I find more information?
For more information about the national platform, including frequently asked questions and details about privacy, security and national products, visit NHS England’s Federated Data Platform pages.
Page updated September 2026.
