People in positions of power make decisions based on evidence. These decisions are only as good as the data on which they are made, and if data does not account for the varieties of peoples, opinions and experiences in the UK, then decisions that impact the population may not account for everyone’s needs. Worse, decisions could actively disadvantage groups who are not large or powerful enough to have their voices heard.

In this research were asked by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and UK Statistics Authority to account for the views of under-represented groups. We spoke with 80+ voluntary organisations and 90+ members of the public with a protected characteristic. They told us that:

• Anonymity – not being identified – is important for many people to be comfortable taking part in research

• Organisations need to go the extra mile to address under-representation. This includes thinking about and designing out barriers that may make it difficult for people to participate. This may range from things like language and literacy needs to deep-seated issues of bias and persecution faces by some communities.

• We should avoid generalising findings. What’s important is to be specific and, wherever possible, stay clear of using umbrella terms for different groups (e.g. Asian, or disabled).

• People won’t participate in research if they don’t believe anything will change as a result – it’s important for people to see their views acted upon, otherwise it will stop them contributing again

We were super pleased to win an industry award for this work (the MRS Inclusion Award for 2023). You can read the full report here.