Guidance

Find out more about finding, using, and applying evidence

This guidance sets out how the Public Health Intelligence function approaches the use of data, evidence and research to understand population health and reduce inequalities. It shares practical concepts, methods and considerations drawn from day‑to‑day work.

It is guidance, not policy. It is intended to support proportionate, good‑enough use of evidence, rather than prescribe a single “right” way of working. Practice will (and should) vary depending on context.

How to use this guidance

• You do not need to read it end to end.

• Use the sections on the left to dip into what you need, when you need it.

• Each section focuses on a core area of work and can be read independently.

• Apply judgement: what’s appropriate will depend on the question, audience, data and time available.