The Beacons for Public Engagement initiative aims to create a culture within UK higher education where public engagement is formalised and embedded as a valued and recognised activity for staff and students at all levels.
It is a four-year strategic project that looks at culture change within a number of university-based partnerships, the Beacons. The project is coordinated by the National Coordinating Centre for Public Engagement (NCCPE), which synthesises the work of each Beacon, drawing out the lessons learned and good practice from their varied experiences and looking at the conditions required for public engagement to be embedded within an institution. The newly-launched website provides further detail on this project and sets out a framework for public engagement, to which the team encourages feedback and contribution.
The NCCPE has identified 'triggers' for embedding engagement:
- It is part of the strategy and promoted through leadership;
- It is recognised and rewarded, and staff involvement supported;
- It is coordinated, learning is shared;
- It involves the public in governance and through ongoing dialogue;
- It includes and involves students;
- Public engagement success is celebrated through communication.
As well as drawing learning from the experiences of the Beacons, the NCCPE is also involved in some specific projects, such as its Student Volunteering Initiative, which looks at the role, contribution and impact of student volunteering. The Centre is also working with the Leadership Foundation to embed public engagement.
The NCCPE wants to state the case for public engagement and why it matters by sharing strong messages about its benefits. Visit their website for further information and get involved.
