Data requests

This application process can be used to request ISCP, JCST and eLogbook data for research, service evaluation, audit and other types of study. Approval by the Data Analysis, Audit & Research Group (DAARG) will follow the process shown on the resources to support data applications page. To ensure compliance with UK General Data Protection Regulation, direct user access to ISCP data can only be used for surgical training.

The DAARG meets four times each year, usually during March, June, September and December. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday 16th September 2026, with a deadline for requests of Friday 14th August 2026.

Review of data sharing process

In light of media coverage regarding the use of pseudonymised data in research, the DAARG has taken the decision to review its data sharing processes. The DAARG has therefore made the difficult decision to suspend releasing data whilst this review is taking place. The review is not expected to make its recommendations until September 2026 at the earliest, with implementation to follow. Data will be shared with researchers once the review is complete and new arrangements have been put in place. In the meantime the DAARG is still accepting data requests and is meeting quarterly to consider them. Feedback is being provided to the requesters however no data is being released.
This statement was published on 13th July 2026 and replaces the statement published on 23rd April 2026. 

About the Data Analysis Audit & Research Group

The DAARG is responsible for overseeing all aspects of data use arising from the JCST, ISCP, elogbook and mSurgery. This includes:

  • To oversee the use of Intercollegiate Surgical Curriculum Programme (ISCP) and elogbook data for the purposes of quality assurance, and evaluation of the curriculum and assessment system.

  • To ensure the needs of the Joint Committee on Surgical Training (JCST) and Speciality Advisory Committees (SACs) are met in terms of release and analysis of data.

  • To work towards building an evidence base for the utility of the ISCP and elogbook and, where appropriate, to suggest research, audit and quality improvement projects.

  • To make suggestions towards strategy for research and audit to ensure the principles of the ISCP and elogbook are being met.

  • To ensure results emitting from ISCP and elogbook data align with the stated application purpose and are disseminated appropriately.

  • To consider all data requests to ensure their objectives, methodology and outcomes are in keeping with the ISCP’s, elogbook’s and mSurgery’s principles, standards and data governance protocols (UK and Ireland).

  • To implement the JCST/ISCP data access charging policy for funded research projects.

  • To contribute towards improving the quality of ISCP and elogbook data and its availability at agreed levels.

  • To consider, and make suggestions on how any changes in the environment / technology may impact on the nature of ISCP and elogbook data.

  • To report to the JCST on data analysis, projects, findings and outcomes, and where appropriate make recommendations for strategic change.

  • To oversee the work of Research Fellows under the remit of the JCST.

 If you have any queries relating to data requests or the DAARG, please contact jcst@jcst.org.