Proposals should make use of the rich data collected by Understanding Society, ideally exploiting the longitudinal nature of the Study, and have a clear plan for impact.
The voucher is designed to support high quality and innovative research ideas using Understanding Society. There are a number of ways in which the voucher can be used, for example, uses could include investigating a policy relevant topic through data analysis or setting up a trends report or policy monitor. An informal discussion with the Understanding Society Policy Unit prior to an application is highly recommended.
The scheme is designed to look beyond the research project and facilitate wider impact generation. As such, the voucher cannot be used for methodological (e.g. constructing and testing new questions) or academic research.
The deadline for this scheme is 31 January 2018.
This is the second time that the competition has run – read about previous successful applications
What does the scheme involve?
The scheme will bring together the expertise from the Study and the third sector organisation to:
- Exploit the full potential of Understanding Society and its unique features.
- Co-produce knowledge, through data analysis and drawing inferences for policy and practise from the findings.
- Generate impact through outputs, events and other activities aimed at policymakers.
How does the scheme work?
- Successful applicants will work with the Policy Unit to produce a joint outline project plan. This plan will set out the scope of the project; it’s likely timings and outputs; it will take account of resources for both parties.
- As a guide, the voucher will provide the organisation with 20 days hands-on expertise and research support, to be completed over a three-month period, with dissemination and other aspects of the project to be completed within a further six months.
- The Policy Unit will discuss emerging research findings; but your input will be crucial to shaping the analysis. This ongoing dialogue will help to develop the narrative around the findings, which is important for outputs.
- In order to further science, facilitate knowledge exchange and promote learning, publicly available outputs will be produced. You will be expected to develop a creative dialogue about the evidence and promote your findings to wider audiences.
- Previous applicants such as the Young Women’s Trust have secured media coverage. Read the final report: Young, Female & Forgotten? The Final Report.
Please note: This is not a cash grant – researchers from the Understanding Society Policy Unit will provide expert input and collaboration which will be reflected in the value of the voucher. (£10,000)
How can I apply?
- Please read the full criteria to check that you qualify for the scheme.
- The team highly recommend that you get in touch with Understanding Society before you formally submit an application. Please contact Raj Patel, Impact Fellow (policyunit@understandingsociety.ac.uk). Raj will then put you in touch with the most suitable researcher from the team.
If you have any questions regarding your application please contact policyunit@understandingsociety.ac.uk.
Researchers in the third sector have access to Understanding Society’s free training resources and the User Support Forum to build their skills and get ongoing help.
