Policy
As a world-leading research university, we are at the forefront of shaping national and international discussion on prevention and health equity, through high-profile research and policy initiatives.
Our researchers are pioneering new treatments and working together with partners including policymakers, healthcare professionals and charities to find new ways to improve patient care and help people live healthier lives.
Find out more about how our researchers are informing health policy and organisation through world-leading research.
NIHR Policy Research Units
UCL hosts five Policy Research Units funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), which bring together multidisciplinary teams of experts to address complex social challenges and support the development of evidence-based policy both nationally and locally.
NIHR Policy Research Unit on Cancer Awareness, Screening and Early Diagnosis
The PRU on Cancer Awareness, Screening and Early Diagnosis (2024-2028) aims to support policymaking by generating evidence to help the NHS to diagnose people with cancer at an earlier disease stage.
NIHR Children and Families Policy Research Unit
The overall aim of the NIHR Children and Families Policy Research Unit is to conduct high-quality research that supports evidence-based policy to improve the health of children and families.
Policy Research Unit in Healthy Weight
We provide world-class expertise in working with children and young people, food policy. economic modelling, environment and behaviour change, to reduce the prevalence and burden of obesity.
NIHR Policy Research Unit in Mental Health
MHPRU is a collaborative initiative with King’s College London, dedicated to producing rapid, evidence-based research that informs national mental health policy and service planning.
Policy Research Unit in Reproductive Health
Launched in 2024, the PRU in Reproductive Health provides high-quality research to support policymakers in making evidence-based decisions about reproductive health and healthcare in England.