Policy 360 Insights - Driving Policy Change Through Evidence and Data: Turning Insights into Action

How to Harness Data and Stories to Strengthen Your Policy Proposals and Build Stakeholder Support

Hello everyone,

After discussing building alliances and managing opposition, I want to talk about something that’s often the game-changer in moving policy forward: using evidence and data.

Whether you're advocating for a new piece of legislation or trying to influence decision-makers in your sector, well-presented data can make the difference between a stalled proposal and a breakthrough. But how do you gather and present evidence in a way that resonates with stakeholders and helps drive real policy change?

In this newsletter, I’ll share practical tips on how to turn numbers and stories into compelling, actionable insights that push your policy goals forward. Let’s dive in!

Why Evidence Matters

When it comes to policy, data is power. It gives your proposal credibility, shows you’ve done your homework, and provides stakeholders with a logical foundation for their support. In a world full of competing interests, it’s often the evidence that sways decision-makers—not just passion or persuasion.

For instance, when I was working on the Children’s Services Co-operation Act, the idea of getting different departments to collaborate seemed daunting to many. There was pushback around feasibility, costs, and even effectiveness. But armed with evidence from regions where similar policies had worked, I was able to show exactly why this collaboration was needed and how it would actually improve child outcomes.

How to Use Evidence to Your Advantage

It’s not just about having data—it’s about how you use it. Here are some ways to effectively harness evidence and data in your policy work: