Social and Economic Research Consultancy - Step Ahead Research
Strategy & Policy Development

Strategy & Policy Development

Step Ahead can work with you to develop a strategy or policy that is evidence based, provides clear vision and direction for the future, and includes an action plan for implementation. Our approach is tailored to each individual project but typically involves a combination of appraisal, consultation and research to develop a strategy or policy that meets national and local objectives and reflects the priorities of those who will implement it and those who will be affected by it.

Our work in this area has included regional and local strategies and policies relating to our areas of expertise as well as strategies relating to specific sectors or organisations. We draw on a range of techniques in our work including:

  • national, regional and local policy reviews;
  • public and stakeholder consultation;
  • scenario modelling;
  • expert panels and Delphi groups;
  • verification workshops;
  • action planning with stakeholders to ensure ownership and commitment to delivery.

Examples of our work in this area include:

  • consultation with over 130 voluntary and community sector (VCS) and public sector agencies to develop a regional economic strategy and action plan for VCS engagement in the economic agenda for the North West Regional Development Agency.

  • working with the Brighton & Hove Economic Partnership to review the economic strategy for 2005–2008 and develop a new sub-regional economic strategy covering the period 2008–2011.

  • a comprehensive review of the North East Regional Healthcare Pillar for ONE North East to inform the development of a Sector Skills Strategy for the North East.

  • research to inform the development of the UfI’s initial Foundation Level Tier Strategy in respect of short, medium and long-term development.
Our Expertise
 

Our clients have included:

UfI/learndirect

North West Regional Development Agency

One North East

South West Regional Employment Forum

Sunderland Learning and Skills Partnership

Learning and Skills Council Sussex

Brighton and Hove Economic Partnership

East Sussex Social Enterprise Network

Wealden & Rother Rural Partnership