University hosts launch of DCMS research agenda
The University of Manchester has hosted the launch of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Areas of Research Interest (ARIs).
The ARIs set out the key policy challenges where new research, evidence and analysis can help inform government decision-making and improve outcomes for people and communities across the UK.
The event, organised by , brought together policymakers and researchers to explore how evidence can address the most pressing issues facing culture, media and sport. Alongside an introduction to the ARIs, academics shared examples of impactful policy engagement from their own research, demonstrating the value of evidence-informed policymaking.
Curated roundtable discussions provided an opportunity for researchers and DCMS colleagues to identify areas for future collaboration, before a networking reception enabled conversations to continue and new partnerships to emerge.
Professor Dave O鈥橞rien, Professor of Culture and Creative Industries and Academic Fellow at DCMS, said:
鈥淚t is vital that universities are places where government can access the expertise, evidence and insight needed to tackle the complex challenges facing society.
鈥淭he University of Manchester is proud to bring together researchers and policymakers to explore how research can help inform future policy for the culture, media and sport sectors. We are a city and University with a vibrant cultural and creative offer, so it's great to bring the conversation to Manchester and continue our meaningful and enduring partnership with DCMS."
Professor Tom Crick, Chief Scientific Adviser at DCMS, said: "It鈥檚 fantastic to launch DCMS鈥檚 new Areas of Research Interest here in Manchester. The challenges and opportunities facing the sectors we support - from culture, heritage and the creative industries to sport, media and civil society - require strong partnerships between government and the research community.
"These ARIs highlight where new evidence and insights can help drive growth, strengthen communities and improve outcomes across the UK. I look forward to working with researchers and partners to build the evidence base that will shape the next generation of policy."