UPEN launches sector-wide Member Consultation to inform its activity

Chris Hewson, Co‑Chair of UPEN and Director of Business Development and Partnerships, describes this moment as a pivotal step in ensuring the network continues to meet the needs of its growing community. 

The consultation invites staff across all UPEN member institutions – including academics, knowledge mobilisers, research and innovation professionals, and those working in policy roles – to share their priorities, experiences, and insights. The survey is quick, anonymous, and designed to enhance UPEN’s understanding of member need. This consultation is a necessary step in building a stronger, more resilient academic‑policy engagement system across the UK. 

The research and innovation system is navigating a period of significant change. This consultation is therefore an important step in supporting the network and developing a clear future offer to our member institutions, shaped by the realities that they face. 

Laura Bea, Head of Membership and Network Development, adds: 

“Some of you have been on this journey with us for seven years, and some of you are new to UPEN. As our community grows, we need to make sure our direction is shaped by the people who make this network what it is, you, our members. This consultation is a crucial building block and will be the evidence base upon which we’re constructing a sustainable and resilient UPEN.” 

The survey takes around 10–15 minutes to complete and is open to anyone working within a UPEN member institution, regardless of role or level of experience. UPEN is encouraging institutions to share the consultation widely across their teams to help build the most comprehensive picture of member needs to date.