Looking ahead

Statistics have become more relevant and interesting for the public in the last few years – a stronger need for understanding has been awakened by the pandemic and we see a growing public expectation that decisions affecting all aspects of our lives will be evidenced by statistics that demonstrate trustworthiness, quality and value (TQV). Rooted in our vision for statistics serving the public good, we will focus our regulatory programme in 2022/23 on projects that will improve public understanding of the issues – current and emerging – that people want to be sighted on – for example, the cost of living and the lasting impacts of the pandemic.

We will also develop a stronger focus on data linkage and joining up data for public benefit – we noted earlier in this report that while this has been a long-term interest of ours, during the last couple of years, we may have focused on this less than on the immediate availability and presentation of statistics that helped people understand the pandemic. In 2022/23 we want to track progress on this crucial element of statistics servicing the public good.

We also aim to continue to widen our reach. There is an increasing range of ways that statistics and data are communicated to the public. We want the power of the TQV framework to extend to these new ways, so that public confidence is maintained and enhanced. And we will draw out and share insights from across our activity – providing thought leadership is an important aspect of our role and one we know allows us to reach a wider range of communities, especially when we work with experts and recognised voices in society.

As has been a key theme of this report, OSR’s story since foundation in 2017 is one of a determined focus on increasing our capability as a regulator. This year, we will continue our drive to raise our organisational maturity, by focusing on how we generate insight; how we support staff development and leadership; and how we communicate and make accessible our findings.