We have to have a valid reason in data protection law for processing study data. This is known as a ‘lawful basis’.
UCL’s ‘statement of tasks in the public interest’ explains more about the reason for using the ‘public task’ lawful basis: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/legal-services/sites/legal_services/files/ucl_statement_of_tasks_in_the_public_interest_-_august_2018.pdf
This statement says that “public task” is the lawful basis for processing study data because UCL is carrying out tasks in its capacity as a public authority when it carries out research. Research for the study is carried out in the public interest with the aim of contributing to public policy.
We seek your informed consent to be part of the study so that you know what to expect when you take part. However, we do not use UK GDPR consent as the lawful basis for using your data.