There is ample research evidence for the benefits of healthcare assets beyond the clinic. So how might we turn this evidence to policy and from there into the health system? What evaluation measures are needed for this translation and how might we make it happen? This was the conversation we facilitated for the UKRI’s Arts and Humanities Research Council.
We co-designed this roundtable event to capture the richness of information available and begin the process of translating this into policy. The first activity among the cross-professional participants lead them to agree a common vocabulary so that everyone was talking the same language during the discussions. Participants then engaged in a series of parallel discussions around data, methods and skills which allowed input from all voices in the room. Bespoke flipcharts captured ideas, thoughts and resources which made for insightful synthesis and priority setting during the second half of the event.
It is always tricky when funders and researchers meet over a ‘what next’ type of discussion. Sawsan expertly guided the conversation so that every voice was heard and the funders did not feel they were there to answer questions about the next funding round! Debrief exercises at key points in the day helped prompt reflection and encourage deeper insights that will be taken through to inform further research, communication about research, and translation of research into policy.
The key take-home message that emerged during the day was to embed evaluation into research design from the outset. This helps establish a seamless path from evidence to societal benefits. Specific steps and methodologies to do this were discussed and shared with participants after the event.
Participant testimonials:
“Engaging discussions on a complex topic, thank you!”
“Learned a lot and will be looking to incorporate these learnings into my work for sure.”
“Thank you for allowing all voices to be heard”
Client testimonial:
“Thank you so much for facilitating such an interesting and successful session.” – Lucy Hackett, Head of Health, Environmental and Urban Humanities, Arts and Humanities Research Council
“Thank you so much again for making last Wednesday such a successful session 😊 We really enjoyed working with you.” – Josie McGregor, Senior Investment Manager for Health, Environmental and Urban Humanities, Arts and Humanities Research Council