Policy Engagement

Group Policy Unit

The Group Policy Unit (GPU) reviews and analyses current national, regional, and local policies with the aim of assessing their impact on higher education broadly and on Coventry University Group specifically. We do this in a variety of ways, such as:

• horizon scanning the external environment to examine the political, socio-economic and other contexts.
• actively engaging with stakeholders, both internally and externally, to understand the bigger picture as well as the subtle nuances.
• attending events, including conferences, roundtables, workshops to gain deeper insight into broader thinking and emerging directions.

Ultimately, GPU’s role is to enable the Group to remain current in its understanding and analysis of the wider context whilst aligning with the Group's strategic priorities in the following areas:

• Delivering an education that transforms lives and advances society.
• Delivering challenge-led, transdisciplinary research and innovation.
• Realising innovation and commercialisation of our knowledge and insights.
• Creating a globally oriented Group.
• Delivering impactful and measurable outcomes for societal advancement and inclusive growth.

What do we do

Intelligence gathering

• Daily horizon scanning for policy updates from national and regional governments, as well as commentaries from sector lobby groups (for example, University Alliance; Universities UK) and sectoral experts (for example, Wonkhe, HEPI)
• External environment reporting to contextualise the Group’s work within the current socio-political, economic and environmental landscapes.

Consultations and inquiries

• Response to calls for evidence from government departments, parliamentary select committees, All-Party Parliamentary Groups, regulatory bodies and third sector organisations.
• Response to direct questions from MPs and local Councillors.

Stakeholder engagement and events

• Stakeholder engagements with Government Ministers and senior officers; MPs, Councillors; Select Committee Members and policy influencers.
• Host events and visits to the Group to strengthen relationships and showcase our innovation in teaching, research and enterprise.

International policy

• international policy engagement via our Hubs in Singapore and India. These teams ensure the Group remains informed and responsive to policy changes affecting our international operations

Contact Us

If wish to discuss any of the above activities or need support with a consultation, an enquiry, stakeholder engagement or international policy relevant to the University Group, please contact us at policy.vco@coventry.ac.uk or any of the team members listed below.

View our Consultation Responses