Policy Connect is proud to celebrate 30 years of bringing evidence, expertise, and collaboration into the heart of policymaking. Founded in the mid-1990s to support a growing cluster of cross-party parliamentary groups, the organisation quickly developed into a dedicated hub for joined-up policy engagement across industry, academia, civil society, and Parliament.
Over the decades that followed, Policy Connect expanded its scope in response to the major challenges shaping the UK. Throughout significant political changes, we have always remained focused on providing constructive, evidence-based insight across skills and education, manufacturing and industry, sustainability, health, technology, and accessibility. Our mission has been consistent: to bring stakeholders together, foster informed dialogue, and support policymakers in developing policy grounded in real-world expertise.
In recent years, our partnerships with universities have become a core part of this work. We help researchers translate their findings into policy impact, support collaborative inquiry programmes, and deliver policy training that equips academic staff and early-career researchers to engage confidently with the policy system. These collaborations strengthen both policymaking and the research community.
As we mark our 30th anniversary, we are also looking ahead. The past year has seen us undertake a careful process to refresh how we present ourselves, ensuring that our identity reflects the organisation we have become and the ambitions we hold for the future. While the essence of our mission remains unchanged, this new chapter offers a modern, clearer expression of who we are and how we work.
We extend our thanks to the policymakers, partners, colleagues, and alumni who have contributed to Policy Connect’s success. With your support, we look forward to shaping the next 30 years with the same commitment to collaboration, evidence, and impact.
Barry Sheerman, Honorary President, says:
“When we first brought colleagues from Parliament, industry, and academia around the same table, our aim was to create a more informed and constructive approach to policymaking. Thirty years on, Policy Connect continues to embody that ambition. Its work has strengthened scrutiny, enriched debate, and helped shape better policy across successive governments. Policy Connect has over these years given innumerable young people their first opportunity of employment and our alumni now hold senior positions in major organisations all over the world. I am immensely proud of what we started and even prouder of what Policy Connect has become.”
Jonathan Shaw, Executive Board Director, added:
“As Policy Connect marks its 30th anniversary, I’m reminded how unique and vital its mission has always been: creating the space where evidence, expertise, and cross-party collaboration genuinely shape policy. Having served as Chief Executive from 2016 to 2021 and now returning as a Board member, I’ve seen firsthand the extraordinary commitment of our staff. Their professionalism, curiosity, and determination to get the detail right are what make Policy Connect such a trusted voice in Parliament.
From our early roots in manufacturing and innovation to today’s broad portfolio across skills, sustainability, health, and emerging technologies, it is the dedication of the team—often working quietly behind the scenes—that turns complex challenges into practical, constructive solutions. Through coalition reforms, the turbulence of Brexit, and today’s fast-moving policy landscape, they have remained unfailingly resilient and mission-driven.
As we enter our fourth decade, I’m proud to continue supporting an organisation defined by its purpose, impact, and exceptional people.”
Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE DL, Chair of the Accessible Transport Policy Commission, said:
“Through our work with the Accessible Transport Policy Commission, I have witnessed Policy Connect’s commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and co-production with disabled people. Policy Connect’s efforts to convene policymakers, sector leaders, and disabled people to discuss policy challenges make it easier for me as a Parliamentarian to advocate for changes that improve access to transport. This commitment to addressing policy areas that widen opportunities and improve disabled people’s lives is why Policy Connect’s work is so vital, and I look forward to building on this partnership in the years ahead.”
Dr Simon Opher MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Health Group, notes:
“As Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Health Group, I have seen first-hand how Policy Connect’s expertise and commitment to bringing together stakeholders from across health and social care translates into real impact on health policy. Across events on a range of policy issues and our ongoing inquiry into primary care services, this ability to convene diverse voices and disseminate knowledge is of vital importance to us as parliamentarians in engaging on health issues with fellow members and ministers. I congratulate Policy Connect on their work over the past 30 years and look forward to continuing our relationship as we report on ‘Improving Access to Primary Care Services’ in 2026!”
