On Friday 12 of September, we launched our new Research, Evidence, Evaluation, and Learning (REEL) training and development programme.
REEL programme is designed to help council staff build confidence and skills in using evidence and research in everyday decision-making, policy and practice. The programme includes four hands-on workshops, each focusing on a key area:
- Data Collection
- Data Curation
- Evaluation
- Decision Making
Each session is packed with real-life examples and practical learning, delivered by our expert colleagues from Somerset’s Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC).
We created the REEL training and development offer following an extensive assessment of research and evaluation culture and training needs within the Council. The result is a structured, research-informed offer that supports staff build the skills and knowledge needed to embed evidence into their work.
The first group to take part in our in-person workshop included Local Community Network Link Officers and Research Practitioners – a new role enabling council colleagues to undertake research within their council role.
Here’s what one of our Research Practitioners, Samanatha Dowell, had to say:
Interesting and insightful training session with the HDRC Team. They encompass a wealth of knowledge on the subject matter and the delivery proved thought-provoking, as well as equipping trainees with the confidence and tools to embark on reflective and valuable research using the most appropriate methodology. A particular strength was the expertise and practical application of research practices engendered by the facilitators which greatly enhanced the learning and insights into qualitative and quantitative data collection gained from the session.
