We are aware that some practices are receiving letters from patients following campaigns from national groups concerning the national Federated Data Platform.
What is the Federated Data Platform?
Information regarding the NHS Federated Data Platform is available on the NHS England website. It is designed to bring together health data and operates at two levels: NHS England National instance and Local instances (e.g. ICB and NHS ). NHS England is the data controller for the national instance, while for each local instance the relevant data controller is the controller for their own instance (e.g. the ICB or the Trust). While there are some pilot GP sites in England, as of August 2026 there are currently no practices in London signed up to a local instance of the Federated Data Platform, however please be aware this position may change.
What do practices need to be aware of?
Some campaign groups have raised concerns around the use of patient data and the contracted data processor, Palantir. One campaign group, Just Treatment, have created a template letter for patients to send to their GP practice regarding their data and the FDP.
As part of collective action in 2026, the BMA encouraged practices to stop entering into any new voluntary data sharing agreements (DSAs) for secondary uses of patient data. However, the position regarding data sharing in London is unique, so Londonwide LMCs created a DSA audit checklist and guidance for practices. Further information and resources are available on our website.
Template letter in response to patient queries
We have created a template letter which practices in London may find useful in response to queries from patients regarding the Federated Data Platform.
If practices require individual support in responding to patient queries regarding use of GP data, they can reach out to their relevant GP DPO.