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Examples of proportionate responses
Low risk: keep a lighter watch
A small number of users misunderstand a technical definition, but the issue has limited reach and is unlikely to affect decisions. Record the issue, consider whether future wording can be clearer, and keep a lighter watch on whether the misunderstanding recurs, spreads or becomes more significant.
Moderate risk: clarify or add context
A stakeholder, journalist or user group repeats a claim that is incomplete or missing important caveats. Clarify directly where appropriate, add context to the release or supporting material, and prepare lines to take with communications colleagues.
Higher risk: correct publicly
A misleading interpretation is being repeated publicly, is gaining traction, or could affect public understanding, trust or decisions. Work with communications colleagues to publish a clarification or correction, and signpost users to the correct interpretation.
Escalation risk: seek advice
Misuse is serious, repeated, high profile, involves official or public use within government, affects professional independence, or could undermine confidence in the statistics or wider statistical system. Escalate internally and consider seeking advice from OSR.