Data Catalogue

What we did

To address this gap, NIHR HDRC Coventry developed and implemented a Data Catalogue from February 2025 to January 2026 to bring together publicly accessible datasets into one place.

The idea originated from Dr Tim Robbins (University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire), with development led by Dr Chloe Ryder (NIHR HDRC Coventry).

A pilot topic on Air Quality was used to design and test the structure. This helped demonstrate how data could be presented clearly and accessibly, and informed the development of additional topics, including Housing and Homelessness, and Digital Inclusion.

Each topic was developed as an information pack, including:

• A definition of the topic

• Explanation of its relevance as a wider determinant of health

• Links to key literature

• Publicly available data sources

• Guidance on interpreting the data

• A named contact within Coventry City Council

The work was carried out collaboratively with:

• Coventry City Council (including Performance Data & Continuous Improvement teams)

• Public Health teams (Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) and the Marmot Principles)

• University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW)

This ensured alignment with local priorities and Coventry City Council’s developing Data Strategy.

What changed

The Data Catalogue has created a single, accessible resource for finding and using publicly available data in Coventry. It has:

• Improved visibility of data sources across key priority areas

• Helped staff and VCFSE organisations access more relevant and varied data

• Supported more consistent, evidence-informed decision making

• Contributed to a more coordinated, system-wide approach aligned with the Council’s Data Strategy

Reflecting on the impact of the work, Dr Chloe Ryder noted that “this work has helped bring together data in a way that is accessible and relevant for colleagues working across the system, supporting more informed decision making.”

This has made it easier for colleagues to use data confidently in their work, including for planning, reporting, and funding applications.

What we learned

A key strength of this work was the collaborative approach with Coventry City Council colleagues throughout development. This ensured the catalogue was practical, relevant, and aligned with local priorities.

Using a pilot topic was also valuable, allowing the team to test and refine the structure before expanding.

One important area for improvement is the earlier involvement of VCFSE organisations. Engaging these stakeholders during development would have strengthened understanding of how data is accessed and used across the sector, and ensured the catalogue better reflects their needs.

Advice for others

• Work closely with end users from the outset to ensure outputs are practical and meaningful for them

• Collaborate with local authority teams to align with strategies and avoid duplication

• Start with a pilot topic to test the format and approach

• Prioritise clarity and usability to maximise impact

Contact

Dr Chloe Ryder, Research Fellow in Quantitative and Mixed-Methods, HDRC Coventry, chloe.ryder@coventry.gov.uk