Events and Opportunities
Upcoming Policy capacity-building training and opportunities from The York Policy Engine
Policy Masterclass (Updated Version)
When? TBC - new dates in autumn 2026
What? Attendees will be introduced to the policymaking process, and how to influence it, through the new ‘Influence Points’ game. They’ll learn to identify strategies and opportunities for policy engagement, before applying this to their own research in the last stages of the workshop.
Who? Facilitated by the civil service Open Innovation Team (OIT). Open to all academic and professional services staff and Postgraduate Researchers (PGRs).
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Storytelling for Policy
When? Wednesday 2 December, 1-4pm
What? Learn to craft compelling narratives that make your research stand out and resonate with policymakers. You’ll leave with confidence in simplifying complex ideas and adapting your message to different audiences.
Who? Facilitated by the civil service Open Innovation Team (OIT). Open to all academic and professional services staff and Postgraduate Researchers (PGRs).
Register here.
Opportunities
Group Coaching for Policy Impact Programme
When? The 6-month programme runs from January to July 2027.
What? The programme complements traditional policy engagement training by helping staff turn knowledge into practice. Through coaching and peer co-coaching, staff will apply new skills to real-world policy engagement challenges and develop greater confidence in navigating complexity, relationships and stakeholder needs. The aim is not simply to achieve a single policy goal, but to develop ways of working that support meaningful policy impact beyond the programme.
Who? The programme is open to professional services and academic staff at the University of York, across all career levels, whose work relates to the ESRC remit or contributes to impact within the social sciences.
One to One Policy Impact Advice Clinics
When? A tailored 1–2 hour session, arranged at a time that suits you, in-person or online.
What? Senior Policy Advisers offer advice on how academics can influence policy on specific topics or research. Participants benefit from a mapping of key policy stakeholders inside and outside government, advice on influencing strategies, and guidance on communicating with policymakers.
Who? Facilitated by the civil service Open Innovation Team (OIT). Open to all staff (academic and professional services), individually or in small research groups.
Submit your Expression of Interest for a one-to-one clinic here. EOIs will be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year, with a limited number of places available.
