Last September, the data community came together to participate in DataConnect22, an online week-long data conference organised with the Central Digital and Data Office in Cabinet Office to celebrate data in the UK public sector.

The event saw massive growth in interest since DataConnect21, with over 9,000 sign-ups coming from over 500 organisations across government, academia, the public sector, and more.

More than 70 sessions were delivered across the week, with a great mix of topics ranging from data linkage, coding, quality assurance, to qualitative methods, best practice, and networking sessions.

This year, DataConnect23 will be running from 25-29 September, and sign-ups for presentations and attendance are open.

Alice Toms, a presenter for the ‘Quality in equals Quality Out’ session last year explained: “DataConnect is different as it provides an opportunity for members of the public to get involved.

“One of the best things about DataConnect is the wide range of people who seemed genuinely interested and eager to interact in every session. Clearly demonstrating a sense of community which is not always common at conferences.”

Similarly, Matt Thompson, presenter for the second year in a row, says his biggest takeaway is “the high levels of engagement throughout the sessions. The data community is so keen to talk and learn, it is fantastic to have more questions than possible to get through in one session.”

Many sessions from last year’s conference saw the benefits of a wide variety of professions attending, from data architects and scientists to data analysts and strategists, all sharing their passion for data.

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For those who want to get involved, a launch event on 19 April will offer a sample of what DataConnect23 has in store, providing an opportunity for questions as well.

Presenter Becky Fry encourages all future aspiring presenters; “even if you think what you are doing is not super data-related there is still space for you. Do not feel restricted, every topic will be welcomed.”

Those who want to present can get in touch via DataConnect@digital.cabinet-office.gov.uk.