Best Practice in Local Authority Research

The MRS in the UK is to host a topical forum on research best practice in local authorities with the support of LARIA (Local Authorities Research & Intelligence Association) - the first time that The Market Research Society has organised an event on local government.

The one-day conference - 'Delivering Good Practice in Local Government Research' - has been designed to promote professional standards amongst researchers and research buyers both within and involved with local government.

The conference has attracted the support of a number of key speakers, including Roger Sykes, Head of Research at the Local Government Association (LGA); Paul Vittles, Managing Director, RBA Research; Graham Kelly, Acting Director of Communications, BMRB; and Peter Laybourne, Chairman and Managing Director, Fathom International. Bryan Hall, Chair, LARIA, will chair the day.

Over 50 delegates are expected to attend the conference, which will be split into specific morning and afternoon sessions and will cover a variety of topics essential for researchers working in the field of local authority consultation.

Amongst the range of topics presented in the morning will be sessions on 'Developing good practice in quantitative and qualitative research', 'Consultation, Participation and Empowerment', and 'Context and Current Issues'. Emphasis will be placed on the implications of the delivery of the Modernisation Agenda, utilising good practice in research among residents, especially in the context of Best Value, Community Planning, and Public Service Agreements.

A series of post-lunch workshops will focus on a variety of key topics, including Best Value Reviews and Community Planning and Research Techniques - particularly Citizens' Panels and group discussions.

Terry Hanby, Chair of The MRS Conferences and Seminars Advisory Board commented, 'This is the first of the one-day conferences The MRS plans to deliver, and we aim to provide excellent value for money, covering a range of leading-edge issues for specific sectors of our industry. Local government policies and practices is a key area of research activity and we look forward to welcoming colleagues from around the country to this important new event.'

'Delivering Good Practice' takes place on 7 February at The Local Government Association, Smith Square, London, SW1.

Delegates who are interested in attending the seminar should contact Vicky Stokes at The MRS on +44 20 7566 1871.

All articles 2006-22 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas unless otherwise stated.