Research, collaboration and change - LARIA conference reflections

Research is truly making its way into practice

It was refreshing to see local authorities translating findings into action, designing more inclusive economic policies, improving healthcare access for asylum seekers and refugees[6], and tackling long‑standing health inequalities. Research was not treated as an abstract exercise but as a genuine tool for change.

A shared commitment to marginalised communities

Many speakers focused on groups often overlooked in policy conversations: children, women, homeless populations, asylum seekers and refugees. Their work highlighted that improving equity requires understanding, empathy and data that reflects real lives.

Recognising the challenges

Alongside the success stories, presenters highlighted a range of policy and research challenges:

• global instability and local impact – conflicts, displacement, economic shocks and market uncertainty are increasing pressure on local systems

• more demand, fewer resources – local councils are expected to do more with shrinking budgets and greater scrutiny

• shifting political landscapes – changing priorities require quick adaptation without losing sight of long term needs

• fear of reputational risk – hesitation to share where things haven’t worked, even though failures can be powerful learning opportunities

• fragmented working (“atomisation of policy ”) – when teams operate in isolation, policies are duplicated, disconnected or less effective

• data gaps – inconsistencies, limited representation in datasets and duplicated data continue to hinder robust insights

Looking forward: what we need next

The discussions pointed to clear areas where I believe future focus is needed:

Strengthening data quality and critical thinking

We need more space to reflect on methods, data limitations and whether we are asking the right questions. Good evidence starts with good questions and methods.

Embedding ethics and reflexivity

Research should be inclusive, safe and attentive to power dynamics. Recognising our own biases—individual and organisational—helps ensure our work authentically represents communities.

Encouraging transparency and shared learning

Not every intervention succeeds; transparent learning cultures—supported by senior leaders and funders—help us build better services over time.

The conference was a valuable reminder of the need for a more collaborative approach to policy and research. It offered an invitation to view research and change through a lens of collective responsibility, with a commitment to achieving tangible improvements in the living conditions of the most deprived members of our communities.