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Sharing data to support vulnerable people in Wales – Welsh Government

The Welsh Government uses data-driven processes for planning and policymaking to support vulnerable people. This is being delivered through the JIGSO project, led by the Joint Emergency Services Group Wales (JESG), linked various data sources using Unique Property Reference Numbers (UPRNs) in its first phase to aid emergency responders. In the second phase, JIGSO included data from other sources like the Priority Services Register from Dwr Cymru (Welsh Water).

Challenges

The Welsh Government sought to address how multiple sets of information from multiple organisations link-up to ensure that the most vulnerable get the right support. Getting data protection and information governance right from the outset makes this challenge easier for local public services.

Approach

The project took the following approach:

  • UPRN integration: Utilised UPRNs to develop data links between various departments and services.
  • DataMapWales platform: Implemented a geospatial platform to serve as a central source for public sector data.
  • Multi-agency collaboration: Engaged with various stakeholders, including local authorities, emergency services, and utility companies.
  • Standardised vulnerability definition: Adopted the Dwr Cymru Priority Services Register (PSR) as a baseline for vulnerability.
  • Secure data sharing: Implemented secure automated file sharing and API integrations.
  • User-friendly interface: Developed JIGSO as a web service accessible via mobile devices.

Outcomes and benefits

The project achieved the following outcomes and benefits:

  • Improved emergency response: Enabled faster, more targeted responses to vulnerable households during crises.
  • Enhanced planning: Facilitated better scenario planning for various emergencies, including flooding and reservoir breaches.
  • Streamlined information sharing: Reduced time to access and share critical information among responders.
  • Wide-scale adoption: Increasing use across various agencies, including local authorities, emergency services, and utility companies.
  • Flexible data access: Allowed users to download data in various formats for integration with their own systems.

View the original case study article at geoplace.co.uk