Public policy affects individuals and organisations every day. It can both create and limit the opportunities to shape the future. But policy is not made in a vacuum; experience and knowledge play an important role. Research and analysis support good decision making, whether by policy makers or those who are directly affected by their policies.

The Policy Analysis Centre was formed in 1995 as an independent consultancy to undertake such research in a timely and effective way. Policy can often change with considerable haste in response to events, and rapid but reliable analysis is often required to assist organisations in responding to such changes.

Since its formation the Centre has provided research and advice to clients on a wide range of topics, particularly in the field of British and international health policy. It has also received commissions to produce published studies on public policy, some of which are available for download.

Past clients and research sponsors have included public sector organisations, including the BBC and the LSE, major pharmaceutical companies, international trade associations, charities and think tanks.