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Dear Colleague
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This month, MetroPolis is off to a flying start, with an exciting programme of activities, training opportunities and news about how we have been supporting researchers to engage with policy.
We are showcasing Manchester Metropolitan University’s research expertise in national policy conversations at the Labour Party Conference this week, supporting two fringe events that highlight the breadth and relevance of policy-engaged research taking place. Beyond the conference, our researchers are continuing to deliver impact at both national and local levels, influencing parliamentary debates and supporting communities directly. We also applaud the important work of Dr Dave Megson, whose research has helped expose the impacts of toxic waste pollution on communities in Lancashire, bringing critical environmental issues to wider public and policy attention.
We are pleased to share updates from the launch of the North West Policy Partnership (NWPP), a new collaboration between universities across the region that will make it easier for policymakers to access cutting-edge research and expertise. We also recently hosted a workshop with the Univerities Policy Engagement Network (UPEN) to help shape an emerging framework designed to strengthen policy engagement practice across the higher education sector.
Looking ahead, we are delighted to launch our Autumn 2026 training programme, offering opportunities to learn from leading policy engagement practitioners and experienced researchers. We are also pleased to highlight the Manchester Met Impact Training Programme 2026-27, which supports doctoral researchers and academics at all career stages to develop the skills, confidence and practical approaches needed to plan, deliver, evidence and communicate research impact effectively.
To find out more and get involved, please speak to your Faculty Impact Manager.
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MetroPolis brought Manchester Metropolitan University's policy expertise to this year's Labour Party Conference, contributing to national discussions on good work, economic opportunity and intergenerational connection.
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The University Policy Engagement Network (UPEN) is organising a series of workshops designed to strengthen policy engagement across the higher education sector.
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Researchers and policymakers came together to mark the launch of the North West Policy Partnership, a new initiative designed to strengthen connections between universities and government across the region.
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Date/time: Tuesday 6th October (10:30-13:00)
Info: This workshop will explore how researchers can engage with and shape policy with their research.
Date/time: Wednesday 14th October (14:00-16:00)
Info: Join Mark Fuller (Showrunner Communications) for an interactive online session on how to write for policy stakeholders.
Date/time: Thursday 29th October (13:30- 16:00)
Info: Get expert insight and advice on how to promote your research to Parliament as an early or mid-career researcher at Manchester Met.
Date/time: Wednesday 18th November (13:00-15:00)
Info: This interactive session explores how to design effective pathways to research impact using Theory of Change approaches and purposeful stakeholder engagement.
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We offer a number of routes for enhancing the policy impact of your research. You can apply for support through the links below. To find out which is the most suitable for your work, or for more tailored support, please reach out to the MetroPolis team.
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The Chancellor’s Fellowship: Our prestigious MetroPolis Chancellor's Fellowship scheme offers high-quality researchers from Manchester Met placements with policy organisations including government departments, charities and think tanks.
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The Chancellor's Visiting Fellowship: This opportunity enables expert policymakers to collaborate with teams of researchers at Manchester Met to facilitate policy impact.
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Rapid Funding Scheme: A quick turnaround funding scheme for a range of activities to enhance the policy impact of research including events, travel, networking and (non academic) publications.
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1-1 Policy Coaching: A one-to-one service for support with your pathways to policy impact delivered by Showrunner Communications, who are experts in public policy.
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This month, we feature two examples of research engaging with pressing policy issues. We recently supported Dr Hannah Fawcett and Dr Matt Brooks in giving evidence on juror wellbeing at the House of Lords - you can read their insights here.
We also share a blog by Digital Society Research Group (DISC) Virtual Fellow Dr Chikezie E.Uzuegbunam, who explores what it means to decolonise AI in Africa and the implications for data, governance, and knowledge production.
Together, these blogs highlight the role of research in shaping policy conversations, from Westminster to global debates on emerging technologies. |
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Manchester Metropolitan University researchers and senior leaders are playing a prominent role at the Labour Party Conference 2026, bringing evidence and expertise to national policy discussions on skills, economic growth, good work, social mobility, child safeguarding and industrial strategy. Supported by the University's policy think tank, MetroPolis, Manchester Met colleagues are contributing to a series of high-profile panels and roundtable discussions throughout the conference in Liverpool.
These include discussions on how Labour can deliver good work in every postcode, featuring Professor Katy Jones, Head of the Decent Work and Productivity Research Centre, and on reforming support for child victims and preventing childhood exploitation, featuring Professor Michelle McManus, Professor in Safeguarding and Violence Prevention and Co-Director of the Institute for Children's Futures. A full itinerary of events and activities can be found here on the University's website.
The University's contributions span many of the Government's key priorities. Discussions focus on the future of post-16 skills reform, support for child victims and the prevention of childhood exploitation, the delivery of good work across communities, workforce health, industrial strategy and the role of the creative industries in driving growth. A number of sessions bring together ministers, MPs, local government leaders, businesses and sector organisations to explore evidence-informed approaches to these challenges.
Manchester Met's presence at the conference reflects its growing reputation as a trusted partner in policymaking. By connecting academic expertise with decision-makers at local, regional and national levels, the University continues to demonstrate how research can inform policy, support public services and help deliver positive change for communities across the UK.
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