SRA Training

Making an Impact: getting research into policy and practice
Summary:	Those who conduct research and evaluation in social policy are often frustrated by the lack of interest that policy makers and politicians show in research findings. Without a detailed knowledge of what goes on inside central and local government, it is often difficult for social researchers to have an influence on policy. The course will provide insider knowledge, to enable researchers to develop strategies to bring key research findings to the attention of potential users. Participants will be encouraged to draw on their own experience, as well as that of the tutors, who have wide experience of working in and with the public and voluntary sectors.
Objectives:	The objective of the course is to help researchers to get their research findings listened to and used. There will be an emphasis on learning from real life examples and developing practical skills.
Topics:	Content includes: Research utilisation in theory and practice; understanding what policy makers want; maximising the impact of your research; developing practical skills; learning from experience.
Who will benefit?	Researchers and research managers in central and local government and the voluntary sector who want to understand how to maximize the impact of research on policy and practice.
Learning outcomes:	By the end of the course, participants will: understand how research is used in policy and practice and know about the practical and political constraints on research impact; be aware of opportunities and drivers in the research-policy relationship and have some practical ideas for maximising the impact of their own research.
Course tutor:	Sue Duncan was formerly Head of the Government Social Research service and has over 25 years experience of conducting social research and working with Ministers and senior policy makers in government and with the local government and voluntary sectors; she has written and lectured widely on using research in policy and delivery, and on evidence-based policy making. Alan Riddell is a former civil servant who has held senior positions in central and regional government; as a policy maker, he has experience of working closely with Ministers and of working in partnership with both local government and the voluntary sector.
Date & Location:	TBC Location: London
Programme	Greeting from Course Tutor - Download Programme to follow and booking form (doc)