Nothing about me, without me

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

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) and UK Statistics Authority asked us to speak with people from under-represented groups to understand their views on how to make research more inclusive. Key themes included guaranteeing anonymity, removing barriers, being specific and avoiding generalisations.

Critically they also wanted to see action. People are getting tired talking about issues that are then not acted upon. It was great to see a swathe of changes to the way in which ONS and other Departments collect data as a result of this research. We were also super pleased to win the MRS Inclusion Award for the work.