Summary
This report draws together the main findings from our casework from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 and discusses five key themes which are summarised below.
Supporting the appropriate use of statistics, data and wider analysis
In November 2026, OSR launched the third iteration of its Code of Practice (Code 3.0), which now includes the Standards for the Public Use of Statistics, Data and Wider Analysis. The Standards for the Public Use align with, and have been shaped by, the types of casework issues that consistently occur. We believe that the Standards for the Public Use in the Code will enable OSR to more effectively guide those producing and using statistics on how to communicate statistics appropriately.
An increase in the complexity of cases
Over the past year, we have observed an increase in more complex cases requiring deeper analysis than has been typical for casework. In some of these cases, we have conducted further regulatory work such as compliance reviews to better investigate concerns.
Our role in the May 2026 elections
OSR undertook both proactive and reactive work in the run up to and during the election campaigns that took place across England, Scotland and Wales during March to May 2026. This report sets out what we did to help ensure the appropriate and transparent use of statistics during the election campaigns, so that members of the public could understand and verify the statistics they heard and have confidence in them.
Influence beyond official statistics
OSR continues to take a broad view of what we will consider through our casework function and what falls within our scope. This is because, for many users of statistics, the distinction between official statistics and other data is not always clear, and members of the public tend to have a broad interpretation of what counts as ‘statistics’. Our position to intervene in cases where we can have a positive impact has been strengthened by the inclusion of the Standards for Public Use in the Code.
Improving our casework service and the coming year
We have recently recruited several new regulatory staff, which should increase our capacity and ability to deal with cases faster and allocate more resource to complex cases in future. OSR also intends to conduct a review of the work we did ahead of and during the 2026 elections, with an aim to further improve our readiness and delivery during future elections, our explainers and our ability to respond quickly to the misuse of statistics in political debate.