(Updated 20th August 2026)
The NHS is building a new computer system called the Federated Data Platform (FDP). It brings together practical information like hospital bed numbers, waiting lists and staff rotas so services can be planned more smoothly.
MPs debated the FDP in April 2026. They raised questions about transparency, public trust and who will own the software in the long term.
Ministers said the contract has review points and a formal break clause in April 2027. If the NHS wants to use it, it must give six months’ notice. This means the next year is important for scrutiny and public input.
Why SUF is sharing this important update
SUF is sharing this update because people with lived experience have asked for clear, accessible information about the NHS Federated Data Platform, Palantir’s role, and what this could mean for people who use mental health services.
This is important because decisions about NHS data systems affect public trust, privacy, and the confidence people have in sharing sensitive information about their health and care.
We are committed to making sure people know about these issues. Together with people with lived experience, Suffolk User Forum expects good NHS data governance, openness about how data is used, transparency about contracts and decision-making, and strong protection of people’s privacy.
Is GP data being added
The FDP is now being used to host the General Practice Dashboard. This dashboard uses existing GP data to help practices understand access, appointments, workforce and medicines management. It does not pull GP clinical notes into a central database. It uses information the NHS already holds for planning and performance.
Access for GP practices and Primary Care Networks is being considered. This shows the FDP is expanding beyond hospitals and ICBs, and it raises new questions about transparency and future scope.
What about mental health data
Mental health services are not yet fully included, but the NHS plans to bring them in. Groups like the British Medical Association and Amnesty International UK say stronger safeguards are needed.
Key Takeaways:
If you are unhappy or concerned about Palantir’s involvement in the NHS and the Federated Data Platform (FDP), there are practical steps that you can take.
The FDP is designed to help the NHS plan services better and cut delays. At the same time, there are real concerns about trust, privacy, and how mental health services will be included. For people with lived experience, it’s important to stay informed and have a voice in shaping how the system develops. SUF will continue to share updates and make sure your perspectives are represented.
Speak Up Locally
For people living in Suffolk, including Waveney and Norfolk you can find the contact details for the Suffolk and North East Essex ICB through this link Contact us – Norfolk & Suffolk ICB
You can contact SUF by emailing us at hello@suffolkuserforum.co.uk,by calling us on 01473 907087, or by completing our online feedback form on this link – Provide feedback on mental health services
Example letter that you can send to the ICB, NHS trusts or Your GP
To East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust,
I’m writing as a worried patient to tell you that I am against the trust’s decision to implement the Palantir Federated Data Platform (FDP).
I’m really worried about data privacy and commercial interests. Palantir has a track record of supporting mass deportations in the US and enabling genocide in Gaza. This background raises serious questions about the culture of the company that will be looking after our highly sensitive personal health data.
I am particularly worried about the potential for mission creep, where data collected originally for our care could later be used for administration, profit, or even by the national government, the police or the intelligence services. This risk is destroying the trust that must exist between patients and the NHS.
I also have serious concerns about the control of data over time. While NHS England maintains that the data will remain under its control and that data is federated, the FDP gives Palantir persistent access and technical insight into the architecture managing millions of patient records.
The decision to use the FDP has not been properly considered by the public or discussed with patients. The trust must immediately give patients more information and more control. You must publish the contract you have signed in full, with no redactions. And you must make sure you are both respecting the national data opt-out mechanism and clearly communicating it to all patients, instead of burying it in the small print.
Yours sincerely,
Find Out More and Make Your Voice Heard
- If you want to understand or support national campaigning activity, you can find information from groups such as Just Treatment, who are campaigning against Palantir’s NHS contract.
- You may choose to take part in lawful, peaceful public activity, such as demonstrations, leaflet drops, or awareness events outside hospitals and at public gatherings.
- You can also look at resources from The Good Law Project, who are working with Just Treatment and provide an online tool that people can use to send an email to their local NHS trust.
- Contact the Suffolk Norfolk against Palantir (SNAP) Campaign by emailing: SUC-snap@proton.me and find out more about the SNAP campaign and the planned day of local action on 1st October 2026.
Stay Informed and Share
- Read investigative reports to understand the broader implications of Palantir’s contracts with the NHS, Ministry of Defence, and police.
- Share credible information with others to help build awareness and encourage informed dialogue.