MRS Award for Public Policy/Social Research Effectiveness
The award for the Public Policy and Social Research Category must demonstrate the impact of research on decision-making within –and understanding of the issues relating to- the public policy and/or social arena.
This year there were some super case studies and well written papers amongst the submissions but most satisfying for the judges was the range of policy issues covered, from social care, legal system, health, parent/child relationships, recruitment of teachers…..And a huge range of methodology from citizens’ forums, mood boards, segmentation. It is heartening that such good research is being carried in the policy/social area.
Winner
Firefish
Origins of the Tales of the Road
What the Judges said
This paper revealed rich insight into how children think about their behaviour and how this contrasts with how the adults witness their behaviour. For example children only feel vulnerable when they are in the middle of the road and, only then, do they apply the rules of how to cross the road. It became obvious that any new campaign would have to address this challenge and the outcome was a development of campaign routes. The researchers then assessed the campaign’s ability to engage children and impact on their behaviour.
It demonstrates a most amazing insight into how children think about their behaviour and how this contrasts with how adults witness their behaviour.
Finalists
Angela Browne (QA Research)
Life After Care
What the Judges said
This is an excellent case study which shows a great understanding of the sector. The researchers used some neat tricks evolving a standard 6 group project into an imaginative engagement with the target of older care leavers. The project has led to the development of a campaign to reform the care leaving system and, among the care leavers, to reduce homelessness, increase involvement in further education or training, and reduce mental illness.
Quadrangle & HM Revenue & Customs
Changing Individuals’ Tax Compliance Behaviours
What the Judges said
This paper addresses a very complex issue –how to increase the levels of tax compliance behaviours. The development of a segmentation of attitudes is well described together with how different triggers are required to change the behaviour of diverse groups. Vital components of the segmentation are discussed. Subsequent use of the research has led to performance evaluation measures and has informed segment-led communications.
Anna Thomas (Define) & Rupal Mathur (COI)
Ethical Considerations Driving Research Innovation
What the Judges said
This was a sensitive research approach that used a wide range of techniques and processes to gain actionable insights. The project allowed participants to control the procedure and the language about sexual health and sex. Although generations older, the researchers fully respected the participants and were able to communicate the latter’s attitudes and behaviours in powerful ways.
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