Data to Insight is not a software supplier in the traditional sense -- we're here to help local authority (LA) colleagues get work done and share it with each other. The best thing about Data to Insight is the community of analysts who are doing and sharing great work through this network.
We recognise that different LAs want different levels of engagement with our work. As such, we offer four key collaboration approaches to suit different users’ information needs.
RIIA Quarterly Dataset
We collect a small set of aggregate performance data from local authorities on a quarterly basis and collate this to assist LAs and DfE in understanding in-year data trends. This data is unvalidated and does not replace any official statistical publications by DfE or individual local authorities.
To find out more about participating, please contact us by email. To access data, LA employees can become a member of this website by using the "Log In / Sign Up" link in the top menu.
To submit data, please liaise with your regional data co-ordinator, or contact us for support. LA colleagues can download the latest copy of the generic collection sheet, and copies of the latest quarterly national dataset, from the "Tools" page.
Extending the SEND dataset
What is this project about?
In 2025 and 2026, D2I is working with funding from the RIIAs, and with support and endorsement from the DfE and the ADCS, to develop a national SEND RIIA quarterly data return, building on the established CSC RIIA dataset.
This new return will provide a national view of SEND performance, helping LAs, regions, and policymakers to identify trends, support early intervention, and influence future reforms.
Why are we doing this?
The SEND landscape is changing rapidly, and the current SEN2 return does not provide the frequency or flexibility needed to keep pace. Strategic leads and DfE need timely insights to understand what is happening on the ground — just as we do with the well-established CSC RIIA quarterly model.
With the new SEND reforms, we have only until 2028 to identify and support regions in line with national policy changes. More frequent data submissions will help regions respond proactively and ensure reforms deliver the intended impact.
What’s happening now?
As of December 2025, consultation on proposed national measures is underway. This is a real consultation and our work will be driven by input from LA colleagues and regional leads. As such, we're also establishing a new SEND Cross-Regional Networking Group to help us:
· Develop and finalises measures collaboratively, ensuring alignment with key regional and national priorities
· Share best practice for understanding and working with SEND data
· Identify tools to support local authority analysts, empowering them to develop the skills needed to turn SEND data into actionable insights
To submit your feedback and to review the first set of proposed measures, please liaise with your regional data co-ordinator.
How will the data be used?
The data will be used in the same ways as the current RIIA quarterly dataset, under the same data sharing protocol. It will support benchmarking for Directors of Children’s Services and their colleagues, and it will help to inform DfE policy and early intervention strategies. It will represent a valuable new source of reference data to inform local analysis, and offer opportunities for LAs to learn from each other and develop good practice.
Want to know more?
Email vanessa.good@eastsussex.gov.uk, or enter your email address below to join our dedicated SEND mailing list and never miss an update about this project.