Policy, and the participation in policy formulation and analysis, is crucial to generate impact and positive change arising from our work. ILAS engages with policy across a number of dimensions and at a number of different levels (i.e. national, regional, and institutional).
First, we employ the lens of the life course to assess the effectiveness of social, economic and public policies, and to examine their relevance for different groups of the population. In doing so, ILAS investigates the intended and unintended consequences of polices for diverse groups, across their life course.
Second, we examine policy as a set of social, cultural and institutional values to unpack how different societal contexts (national and international) position and prioritise particular groups within society.
Third, through a combination of our research and community engagement programmes, we seek to raise awareness of key challenges affecting potentially marginalised groups, at key points in their lives. We work in collaboration with public and community and voluntary agencies to influence the development of new policy frameworks and their implementation. We also work with partners within the University to implement new policies around innovative teaching and research approaches. Ultimately, ILAS endeavours to enhance the life-course relevance of public and social policy through a strong emphasis on policy impact.
