The Government Office for Science has published a new toolkit designed to assist civil servants in engaging with academics. The resource aims to help policymakers access relevant research and expertise to understand complex issues and make informed decisions.
The toolkit offers practical guidance and resources on topics such as identifying relevant experts, selecting appropriate engagement methods, and fostering effective relationships. It also sets out four core principles for effective engagement: investing time in preparation, engaging early and widely, communicating clearly, and following through afterwards.
A central theme of the toolkit is the importance of incorporating a broad range of experts and expertise. It suggests that drawing on diverse disciplines, perspectives, and experiences can enhance the quality of advice and help prevent oversights in decision-making. While primarily developed for civil servants, the toolkit is publicly accessible, potentially fostering greater understanding between policymakers, researchers, and connecting organisations.