News and Blogs
Local government is responsible for some of the most consequential public health decisions made in England, including on housing, urban planning, and youth and early years services; and must use evidence to make effective decisions.
Dr Lucy Potter at the University of York recently hosted the launch of a new report ‘Freedom of Religion or Belief for All: Recognising and Protecting the Non-Religious in the British Asylum System’ examining the treatment of non-religious asylum claims in the UK.
Our economy is making us sick. What if the solution isn’t just treating the symptoms, but redesigning how we produce and provide for one another? A new blog based on research from Dr. Amy Barnes explores how food co-operatives can act as a vital, often-overlooked, public health intervention.
The Social Change Catalyst Blog for March 2026, comes from Mark Freeman, Professor of Finance and the Associate Dean (Partnerships, Engagement, and International) for the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of York
The York Policy Engine was thrilled to host a special ‘Catalyst’ event at York’s fabulous Guildhall on Tuesday 10 February, in what was an evening charged with energy, passion, and ambition.
The new Social Change Catalyst Blog for February 2026, comes from Jeremy Moulton, Senior Lecturer for the Department of Politics and International Relations at the University of York
In this blog, Dr Amy Barnes writes about her work with local government and the research which can shape policy issues for local communities. The article focuses on a recent project with the Bradford Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) which drew on the experience of local residents to help inform policy on climate issues.
In this blog, Vasia Passaris, a Senior Policy Advisor with our partners at the Open Innovation Team, reflects on a recent Storytelling for Policy session held here at York
In this blog, senior policy advisor in the Department for Education (DfE), Iain Cuthbert, shares his experience of participating in the Open Innovation Policy Fellowship scheme.
The new Social Change Catalyst Blog for January 2026, comes from Helen Barnard, Director of Policy, Research and Impact, Trussell
In this new blog, Dr. Sarah Forbes, academic researcher at the University of York School for Business and Society, shares her experience and advice for academics looking to make policy impact with their research.