A recipe for impact? Exploring knowledge requirements in the UK parliament and beyond

Abstract

In the context of ongoing debates around academic engagements with policymakers, this article discusses how academics can successfully engage with the often overlooked institution of Parliament. We argue that the UK Parliament is not a homogeneous organisation but has differing knowledge requirements for different parliamentary sites. While there are common barriers that need to be overcome by researchers, there is no universal recipe that will ensure successful research impact. We argue that there are different forms of engagement likely to lead to influence, and that co-production is the most important way by which academics can engage with Parliament.