We’ve brought together a group of changemakers to drive the implementation of the Open Referral UK (ORUK) data standard across local government.

Earlier this month we hosted our second cross-government steering group, which built on discussions from our first meeting, held in July. During both meetings, colleagues from government departments and public sector organisations—including the Department for Education, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, the Central Digital and Data Office, and the Local Government Association—discussed how to facilitate the adoption of ORUK nationwide.

The importance of Open Referral UK

Councils spend significant time and resources connecting residents to community services and even then it can be difficult for residents to access the right information. ORUK is a data standard that provides a consistent way of recording and sharing information about services. By organising community service data in a common way so that directories can communicate with each other, it simplifies the process of finding and accessing the right service, whether securing transport for a doctor’s appointment or finding housing support. 

Read more about the benefits of ORUK and how the Local Digital team is supporting its expansion

What to expect from the ORUK steering group

Over the next year, the steering group will address how we connect central government, councils, public services, and voluntary groups with the communities we serve. It will focus on promoting the adoption and implementation of the data standard, following the recommendations outlined in the discovery report.

The first meeting formalised the structure of the group and our principles of collaboration and innovation. The group will meet quarterly and form sub-groups to include stakeholders from local government, healthcare providers, community organisations, and technology partners. These sub-groups will explore best practice, address challenges, and develop a roadmap for integration and adoption. 

The second meeting provided an opportunity to understand the real-world benefits of ORUK through presentations by the Department for Education and the Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board. Sharing experiences of adoption will help us to foster a more connected, informed, and sustainable community around ORUK.

Find out more and get involved

We want to spread the word and encourage councils to start their ORUK adoption journey. 

Our first event will be held on Wednesday 9 October from 11.00 am to 12.30 pm. This will provide an overview of the Open Referral UK (ORUK) journey and its potential impact on communities. You can register via Eventbrite. 

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