Today we are updating members on AUDE’s most recent discussions with HESA, and asking that all member institutions prioritise a response to the consultation this week. It is clear that the Office for Students has already taken the decision that collection of EMR data should no longer be mandatory in England. We believe that this is the wrong decision.

HESA’s resulting consultation is concerned with whether or not the sector would still value the collection of this data – and unequivocally our answer is YES.

The HESA consultation is asking us about two important but separate issues, and we urge members not to confuse them. The first issue is whether we want to continue to submit EMR data, and our main priority here is to demonstrate, through sheer weight of individual university responses, that members agree the data should still be submitted and collected by HESA. The second issue concerns whether the data set needs reviewing. We think it does, but that a review of the data set should be led by AUDE once our aim on the first issue has been secured.

Why is this issue of such importance to us?

• This data feeds the annual publication of AUDE’s Estates Management Report – a vital benchmarking tool that estates teams use to develop strategy and drive improvement
• The data is verified, and informs decision-making on major investment at executive and governor level
• The investment of £150k by AUDE, HEFCE and EAUC in the sector-leading Sustainability Leadership Scorecard (and other toolkits) – which are underpinned by this data – will be wasted if the integrity of the data is not maintained
• We believe there remains a high demand for this data but without mandatory submission we cannot assume that. We have to act to protect the quality of this data, which will inevitably decay over time unless we act. Why would we willingly throw away an “information advantage”?

AUDE members in England

The HESA consultation runs to 3^rd May. Respond now with the clear messages that it is essential that this data is collected; and that you will continue to submit as you still see huge value in the dataset.

AUDE members in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

Although it is the data relating to English institutions which is at risk, we ask that all UK members respond with the same clear message. It is essential that this data is collected so that we retain our ability to compare and benchmark UK-wide. Please respond by 3^rd May.

The consultation has been sent to VC’s offices and is likely to be delegated, so please ensure you engage with this and ensure that whoever is responding has the necessary information.

Can I ask for you to confirm to me that you have submitted a response at HEI level and to send me a copy of your submissions (EMR related section).

Jane White

AUDE Executive Director