Update (May 2026)
MPs debated the NHS Federated Data Platform in Parliament on 16 April 2026. In that debate, MPs from multiple parties raised concerns about transparency and trust, whether the NHS would be locked into a single supplier, and what the contract means for NHS ownership and control (including intellectual property). Ministers said the contract will be kept under review and highlighted the built‑in break and review points, including a formal break clause scheduled for April 2027, which requires the NHS to give six months’ notice if it intends to exercise it. They argued this provides a clear opportunity to reassess performance, value for money, and supplier suitability before committing to the next phase of the programme.
At a Stepping Forward event in Septembet 2025, people with lived experience raised important concerns about the involvement of Palantir in the NHS’s new Federated Data Platform (FDP). Attendees asked SUF to help ensure that service users are fully informed about who Palantir is, what the FDP is designed to do, and what this means for people who use NHS services.
In response, SUF is sharing the following information so that everyone can understand the role of Palantir in the NHS, the aims of the FDP, and the ongoing debates about privacy, transparency, and trust. If, once you have read this document, you are concerned about Palantir’s involvement in the NHS and the FDP, you can make your voice heard. Details on how to raise concerns and take action, individually or collectively, are provided at the end of this document.
What is it?
The Federated Data Platform (FDP) is a new national NHS computer system. It brings together operational data (information such as hospital bed numbers, waiting lists, staff rotas) so different NHS organisations can work together more smoothly.
It does not include data relating to your GP records, therapy notes, or prescriptions.
Why is it happening?
The NHS says the FDP will help:
- Reduce waiting times
- Improve planning (e.g. managing hospital beds)
- Join up services across hospitals and regions
Who is building it?
In November 2023, Palantir was awarded a £330 million contract to help deliver the new system as part of a consortium. Palantir is a U.S. technology company. The contract and its safeguards have been debated publicly, including in Parliament in April 2026.
What do supporters of the system say?
- It will make the NHS run more efficiently.
- It can help in emergencies (e.g. surges in demand).
What are critics of the system saying?
- They are raising concerns about privacy and confidentiality: Will data be protected, and will service users feel safe sharing information?
- Critics argue parts of the contract and decision-making have not been made clear enough to the public.
- MPs have very recently raised concerns about long-term dependence on one supplier and whether the NHS will own the software/know-how it pays for.
- There are issues of intregty and trustbecause Palantir works with security and immigration agencies and this worries some people.
- Ethics and reputation: Some campaigners argue the NHS should avoid suppliers linked to controversial uses of technology.
What about mental health services?
- Mental health services are not fully included yet, but the NHS plans to bring them in.
- This raises important questions about confidentiality, stigma, and whether service users have been properly consulted.
- Groups like the British Medical Association and Amnesty International UK have called for stronger safeguards and more openness.
What does this mean for me?
- Right now, mental health data is not part of the national rollout.
- You still have rights under data protection law (GDPR), you can ask how your data is used and raise complaints if needed.
- People with lived experience are speaking up to make sure mental health voices are heard.
What has Parliament said recently?
- MPs held a Westminster Hall debate on the NHS Federated Data Platform on 16 April 2026, with contributions from multiple parties.
- Key concerns raised included transparency (including how the contract was awarded and what information is redacted), public trust, and whether a single supplier model creates long-term “lock-in”.
- MPs also questioned what the NHS will own at the end of the contract (for example, whether the NHS retains software and know-how, or whether it remains with the supplier).
- A minister response emphasised that the NHS controls access to NHS data and said the contract includes review/break points so performance and value for money can be reassessed.
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
Join National Campaigns
- Connect with groups like Just Treatment, who are actively campaigning against Palantir’s NHS contract.
- Connect with The Good Law Project who are working with Just Treatment, who have a simple online tool you can use to send an email to your local NHS trust.
- Participate in peaceful demonstrations, leaflet drops, or awareness events outside hospitals and at public gatherings.
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.