Within the context of a wider focus on the impact of Knowledge Brokering Organisations (KBOs), the Wales Centre for Public Policy is committed to understanding and maximising its own impact. The Embedded Impact Researcher project aims to understand the relationship between the WCPP’s knowledge mobilisation practices and its impact on the use of evidence in policy making and public services in Wales, answering the following research question:
What is the impact of how WCPP works on the role of evidence in policy making and public services in Wales?
The Embedded Impact Researcher is currently working with project teams to trial and refine a series of approaches to support impact capture across live WCPP projects including:
- Impact mapping
- Stakeholder mapping and analysis
- Reflective impact logs
- Reflection sessions
- Stakeholder interviews and surveys
- Impact narrative
The Embedded Impact Researcher is currently attached to three projects: Poverty Stigma, Net Zero 2035, and the creation of a Multisector Collaboration Toolkit. The development of these approaches will enable the WCPP to consider whether and how to mainstream approaches to impact capture across its work.
In addition to informing the WCPP’s approach to capturing the impact of live projects on an ongoing basis, the Embedded Impact Researcher is also conducting interviews with external project stakeholders and leading reflection sessions with WCPP staff at project completion.