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UK and international comparative research on socioeconomic inequality in early childhood, conducted by University of Bristol in conjunction with international colleagues, has profoundly influenced a variety of UK policy initiatives since 2010. Reliable evidence on the extent of learning deficits among recent cohorts of socio-economically disadvantaged children in early childhood has led to widespread acceptance in government that policy to promote equality of opportunity must begin in the preschool period. Analysis of the factors underpinning the disparities has led to and informed the development of official UK indicators to monitor progress in this area and specific policies to support parents, with outstanding potential to impact positively on the life chances of disadvantaged children. These include, for example, free childcare places for disadvantaged two-year-olds, an increased number of health visitors and the launch of telephone and online services for parents.
This case study refers to the development of strategic public affairs management and associated research on political risk and the regional economy at the University of Chester. It demonstrates both impact on business strategy at international levels and influence on government policy. The Bank of America (MBNA) case is evidenced as an example of effective public affairs research. The business is the largest service based centre in the region, accounting for 3% of Cheshire's GDP (2011). The research has informed both strategy and policy for business and government resulting in the retention of a major international business in the North West.
Spaceport is a Visitor Centre in an historic ferry terminal on the banks of the Mersey which showcases astronomy and space exploration. As a project it combines the research experience and knowledge of LJMU with the tourism credentials of Merseytravel. Merseytravel oversees the Merseyside public transport system, to promote and develop the transport network to meet the region's economic, social and environmental needs. As an attraction, Spaceport regularly exceeds visitor number predictions (currently at 70,000 per year) and brings in excess of £2M p.a. into a regeneration area. The continuing participation of LJMU has ensured that the centre remains up to date with new exhibits that link directly to LJMU's astronomical research and special events featuring LJMU astronomers and others, which are designed to extend its audience (e.g., for amateur astronomers or schools from inner-city areas).