We have recently started publishing the responses to additional requests for data on www.stats.je, to be freely accessible to all.
Under the new approach, whenever we produce analysis in response to requests from organisations, States Members, public servants, the media, or members of the public, the data will be shared with the original requestor and then also published for everyone to access, as soon as practical.
Equality of access to our statistics has always been an important principle. Recent updates to our website allow us to share user-requested data in a consistent, accessible way.
User requested data typically includes further breakdowns of already published statistics—such as alternative cross-tabulations, different classifications (for example, age groups), or more granular cuts of data.
Ian Cope, Chief Statistician, explained:
If additional analysis is useful to one person or organisation, it’s likely useful to others. Publishing user requested datasets ensures everyone benefits—researchers, policymakers, businesses, and the public alike. It also facilitates debate, when everyone has access to the same data underlying a topic, issue or proposal.
As with regular statistical outputs, we are very careful that the user requested datasets do not disclose any personal, confidential or commercially sensitive information, either directly or when combined with other readily available data. In addition, the published request will not identify the requestor, or the purpose of the request.
We may delay publication for data supporting policy under development. In such cases, we will publish the data as soon as possible after the policy is released, ensuring everyone has access to the same information.
Not all requests we receive lead to a published dataset. Many involve directing users to existing statistics or providing advice on survey design or data interpretation. We will continue to offer this support as usual.
Our aim is that this improvement to the Statistics Jersey website will improve transparency and accessibility of statistics for all our users. You can read more detail about the change on our website’s new blog page.