NEWS - Scottish innovators create the SafePoint

Building on the success of the SafePod Network, a second secure option called the SafePoint has been launched, which offers a low-cost, scalable, and standardised safe setting for secure data access within an approved research organisation.

 

What is a SafePoint Desk?

A SafePoint desk is a custom built SafePod Network Desk that provides the necessary security controls and IT infrastructure for data access. It provides research organisations with a local and cost-effective secure data access solution, to provide greater opportunities to apply for and use sensitive data for public good research.

There are two versions available: the SafePoint MultiDesk and SafePoint Single Desk. 

 

What makes the SafePoint desk unique?

There are many special features on both the SafePoint single desk or Multidesk, to ensure secure data access, which include: 

  • Screen barriers
  • Monitor security system
  • CCTV camera
  • Large 34” dual monitors
  • Writing panel
  • Researcher Locker.

To learn about the Single desk or the two modes of Multidesk, please read here.

 

What are the benefits of installing a SafePoint desk?

SafePoint's major benefits include:

  • Security controls ready – Meets the strict requirements of data centres for secure data access.
  • Improved research opportunities – Enables researchers to apply for and access data directly from their organisation.
  • Multi-access data platform – Provides researchers with access to data from different data centres.
  • Simplicity – A simple plug in safe setting for secure data access.
  • Scale and speed – Quick installation at any approved research organisation.
  • Collaborative research – A MultiDesk supports up to four researchers working together.
  • Widens data access – A secure and flexible way for data centres to share data for research.
  • Future-proofed – Designed to support various hardware and connection solutions.
  • Flexibility – Can be used for an organisation’s own confidential research projects (subject to approval).

 

What funding is available?

Organisations can apply for partial funding for a SafePoint to provide secure access to data for research. As a condition of funding, an organisation must make their SafePoint accessible to internal and external researchers.

To learn more about the several funding options that are available for an organisation to purchase a SafePoint single desk or multi-desk, please click here to read about all SafePoint purchasing options.

SafePoint Application Document - please click here for the form.  

 

To find out more - please visit SafePoint's own webpage. 

 

This article was published on 14 Apr 2025

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