Knowledge Exchange funding: A review of novel evaluation methodologies

In 2019 Research England commissioned SQW, supported by City-REDI, to undertake a study examining the potential theory-based approaches that Research England could implement as part of the next overall evaluation of the Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF). Such theory-based approaches had not previously been implemented systematically or at a national level in a UK knowledge exchange (KE) context and were therefore considered novel. The aim was to consider potential approach/approaches that can complement quantitative evidence on the outcomes and impacts HEIF funding is generating (i.e. the ‘what’), with systematic and robust evidence on the mechanisms by which HEIF-funded activities lead to these outcomes/impacts (i.e. the ‘how’)

Knowledge Exchange funding:novel evaluation methodologies phase two final report

A report commissioned by Research England by SQW and supported by City-REDI examining the potential for the use of novel theory-based approaches as part of the overall evaluation of the Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF)

Evaluation of No_Code Pilot

No_Code project is a programme of activities funded by the Community Renewal Fund (CRF) led by Greater Birmingham & Solihull LEP (GBSLEP). This report is an evaluation of the No_Code pilot

Evaluation of No_Code Pilot

No_Code project is a programme of activities funded by the Community Renewal Fund (CRF) led by Greater Birmingham & Solihull LEP (GBSLEP). This report is an evaluation of the No_Code pilot

A review of the economic and social value produced through funding PhD students

UK Research and Innovation funded over £3bn into PhD-level study in 2022/23. The impacts of PhD study can have significant positive impacts on professional and personal development, especially for women, as well as generate significant returns for the individual, the Exchequer, industry, and university-industry collaborations. Still, there is a need to better understand the how PhD study fits into a place-based strategy, and civic role of universities, and their relationships with industry and place. This report shares the findings of a rapid evidence review into the economic and social impacts of PhDs to improve evidence and make an informed case for PhD study as part of a wider civic mission

Connecting Communities:Process Evaluation: Final Report

Connecting Communities was a voluntary employment support programme funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and procured and overseen by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA). It was tested across nine geographically defined neighbourhoods (also called ‘lots’) and ran for three and a half years. This period included the Covid-19 pandemic, which impacted on programme delivery, employment opportunities and everyday life more generally. The nine lots were located across the WMCA area: Birchills Leamore; Batchley and Brockhill; Cannock North; Washwood Heath; Shard End; Chemsley Wood; Binley and Willenhall; Camp Hill; and Glascote.Emphasising intensive, personalised, and context-specific support, the programme sought to: (a) build social networks to foster positive behavioural and attitudinal changes towards work; (b) increase employment; and (c) work with local businesses to bolster the recruitment and progression of disadvantaged individuals. This evaluation identifies the factors that influenced employment and progression outcomes for participants, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the place-based approach to employment support more broadly. The study drew on qualitative data from observational site visits, in-depth interviews, and analysis of management information and claims data. An impact evaluation and assessment of cost-effectiveness will be published separately.<br/