The ability to write for and engage with policymaker audiences has become an important skill for researchers to acquire and develop. This partly reflects increasing demands from external funding bodies for new research that has real societal impact, and which may only be facilitated through changes in policy and/or new policy design. In addition, universities are increasingly being tasked to focus upon their civic activities, with academics being encouraged to liaise closely with regional stakeholders and policymakers on issues and challenges of local/regional concern.

Yet explaining complex issues to policymakers often poises new questions for researchers, especially those long versed in academic writing. In this Regional Studies Association Professional Development webinar, Dr Mariachiara Barzotto and Prof Phil Tomlinson (both School of Management, University of Bath) draw upon their own experiences (and expertise) and offer some useful tips and guidance in engaging with and writing for policymaker audiences.