Our research

Expert research and opinion

We are delivering a range of policy and research work that is contributing to public service progress.

What we do

We undertake research to help continuously improve our services, support innovation and learn from the latest best practice.

We look further into the data and stories from our services and commission and contribute to reports across a range of public service topics.

We take an insight-driven, practice-informed approach, using real-world frontline experience to understand how policy impacts people's lives and where improvements and innovations can be found.

We engage with service users, community stakeholders and policy developers to generate evidence and recommendations that can shape policy in areas such as in-work progression, labour market inequalities, access and inclusion to services and achieving optimal outcomes.

Our expert senior leaders also provide frequent commentary on key issues in their areas to contribute to public debate and awareness.

Our publications

Policy & Research team

Sarah Welfare

Sarah Welfare

Associate Director of Policy & Research

Sarah joined Reed in Partnership in 2018 and leads on policy and research across the organisation.

Her team devises and delivers research projects across a wide range of policy areas, using the insights to support continuous improvement of our services and shape public policy.

Prior to joining Reed, Sarah ran her own policy research consultancy, delivering projects for think tanks, government bodies and employers. She previously worked as Employment Policy Director for the Equal Opportunities Commission, following roles for the CBI, a trade union and a political party. She has served as a locally-elected councillor and community centre trustee and is passionate about supporting community empowerment and connection. 

Eva Bell

Eva Bell

Policy & Research Manager

Eva has been Policy & Research Manager at Reed in Partnership since 2024.  

She is committed to developing evidence‑led policy that enhances public services and strengthens support for people in their communities. Her work is grounded in extensive experience across mental health policy, research and stakeholder engagement, as well as a strong grounding in human rights and public law. 

Before joining Reed in Partnership, Eva held a series of policy, participation and research roles at Samaritans and Rethink Mental Illness, where she worked to amplify lived‑experience insights and improve outcomes for people navigating public services.