How to find an ODS code

January 25th 2024

This short guide explains what an ODS code is, how to find it, and when you might need it.

What is an ODS code?

An ODS code (also called an Organisation code) is a unique code created by the Organisation Data Service within NHS Digital, and used to identify organisations across health and social care. ODS codes are required in order to gain access to national systems like NHSmail and the Data Security and Protection Toolkit.

Finding your ODS Code

If you do not know your organisation’s ODS code, you can look it up on the ODS Data Search and Export website (formerly known as the ODS Portal).

Visit: https://www.odsdatasearchandexport.nhs.uk/

Type in your organisation’s postcode.

If you do not have a valid organisation code or cannot find your organisation on the ODS Data Search and Export portal, please follow the instructions on how to ‘update organisation data’ on the ODS website.

If there are a number of codes and you are not sure which one is the right one, please read further guidance below, or contact the Digital Care Hub helpdesk: 0808 196 4848  (Mon-Fri 9-5) or [email protected].

Choosing the correct code

All Care Home and Domiciliary Care providers will have at least 2 codes.

• An HQ code or “parent” code. This is 4 digits and normally starts with an A or C, e.g. A*** or C***.
• One or more site or “child” codes. This is 5 digits and normally starts with V, e.g. V****. Each site code belongs to a single HQ code

If you are completing your DSPT for a single site, we recommend registering using your V**** code

If you are completing your DSPT for your HQ/Head office, and potentially intend for this assessment to apply to multiple sites, we recommend registering using your A**** or C**** code.

Other types of ODS code (8****)

Some organisations, particularly those that provide a wide range of services may also have additional ODS codes such as those for non-NHS organisations, which may take the format: 8**** etc.  For the purposes of access to NHSmail and the Social Care support offer – you should instead use your A***, C**** or V**** codes (as above).

What happens if there is an issue with your code?

ODS uses CQC data to create organisation codes. If a code has been allocated but there is an issue with the data held by ODS, this means that CQC also have incorrect data. Your code and associated information, such as name and address, can only be changed by CQC. If you contact CQC and change your data, this will then flow to ODS and be published as part of the social care files used across the NHS.

If you are not CQC registered, use the online ODS advice service to make a request for an ODS code.

ODS codes and the Data Security and Protection Toolkit

You need an ODS code in order to complete the Data Security and Protection Toolkit. See further guidance on completing the DSPT.