UCL policy and political engagement

Across the university, colleagues collaborate with three key teams to turn ideas into real-world change: UCL Policy Lab, UCL London and UCL Public Policy. Each plays a role in shaping policy and politics.

We also have several specialist policy hubs across our faculties, with concentrated expertise in specific policy areas.

Together, they connect researchers with political leaders, communities, and decision-makers to shape better policy outcomes locally, nationally and globally.

Please contact the Public Affairs Team publicaffairs@ucl.ac.uk for UCL institutional policy engagement.

UCL Policy Lab: a leading think tank

The UCL Policy Lab brings together extraordinary expertise and everyday experience, connecting them both with the tools and resources needed to drive real social and policy change. The Lab is widely recognised as the place where senior politicians, think tank heads, writers and artists, business leaders and grassroots activists work effectively together for the common good.

UCL Public Policy: connecting academics and policymakers

UCL Public Policy strengthens academic policy engagement across the university, making UCL’s evidence and expertise accessible to policymakers in the UK and internationally. It supports researchers through knowledge brokerage, training, briefings, fellowships, placements and targeted policy-focused outputs towards non-political bodies and the civil service.

London regional and local policy partnerships

Research, teaching, business engagement, volunteering and community and public engagement: UCL London work to create opportunities in and for London. Led by Professor Alan Thompson, Pro-Provost (London), they build relationships and engage with local people and communities, policymakers, local government, creative and cultural organisations, industry and healthcare providers.

Specialist policy units and hubs

Health and life sciences 

Children and Families Policy Research Unit (CPRU): Focuses on improving the health of children and families, specifically addressing vulnerabilities, long-term conditions, and disabilities. 

Policy Research Unit in Cancer Awareness, Screening, and Early Diagnosis: Conducts studies to improve early detection and cancer screening policies. 

Policy Research Unit in Mental Health (MHPRU): A partnership with King’s College London, this unit provides rapid research on mental health policy, including the Mental Health Act, peer support, and service evaluations. 

Policy Research Unit in Healthy Weight: Researches food policy, environmental factors, and behavioural changes to reduce obesity. 

Policy Research Unit in Reproductive Health: Focuses on policy related to reproductive health and rights. 

Policy Research Unit in Behavioural and Social Sciences: Partners with Newcastle University on policy evaluation and design.

Science, data, technology, engineering and society

Policy Impact Unit: Connects research from UCL’s Faculty of Engineering Sciences with policymakers at local, national and international levels.

Arts, creative industries and culture 

WHO Collaborating Centre for Arts and Health - SBRG: A globally unique centre investigating how arts and culture impact physical/mental health. 

Law, society and community

Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose: Changing how public value is imagined, practised and evaluated to tackle societal challenges on a global scale.

Climate Action Unit: Connects neuroscience, psychology and communication science research with policy and business decision-making. 

European Institute: UCL’s hub for research, engagement and teaching on European law, policy and society.