In REF 2014 a third of all impact case studies referenced influencing policy. Similarly, public engagement is becoming increasingly important with funders and is critically important in helping the university connect with the communities in which we are based. But it can be difficult to know where to start to make sure your research reaches these wider audiences effectively.

If you want to know how to get started on policy and public engagement, and to access the support that is available from the University, then why not sign up to come along to the one-day conference and training event, Nottingham Engaged 2018: Global Research, Civic Impact in the Trent Building on Monday 17 September?

The conference includes two strands: an ‘expert’ strand for those already working in these areas, with training sessions led by the NCCPE and On Think Tanks, and a beginners and intermediate strand if you’re just getting started.

With both strands coming together for networking, the day will be a great opportunity not just to learn about the basics of policy and public engagement, but also to learn from colleagues who are already doing it. The Vice-Chancellor will give the welcome address. Keynote speakers include Rachel Wolf, former adviser to David Cameron, and Stephen Meek, the new Director of the UoN Institute for Policy and Engagement.

The agenda includes a range of exciting sessions, delivered by experts from within and outside the University, including the Institute for Government, the Wellcome Trust and the British Science Association. As well as introduction sessions to policy and to public engagement, you’ll have the chance to learn about how to engage with parliament, work with schools, overcome barriers to policy engagement, engage the public through festivals, and even use comedy to get your research findings to a wider audience.

The day will be hosted by External Relations and the University’s new Institute for Policy and Engagement, which has been created to support all UoN academics achieve greater impact for their research through influencing policy and engaging the public. You can book a place at the conference here.

For more information about the day or about the Institute, contact Chris Sims, Head of Global Policy Impact.