From 30 September to 4 October, policymakers across the UK will converge, in person and virtually, to explore the political and policy environment. Policy Festival 2024 offers a great opportunity to connect, share and innovate – something that is crucial in challenging times for our economy and our security. The theme, “connected people, connected policy”, explores how we collaborate to deliver better outcomes for UK citizens.
We are in an era when the complexity of issues demands a more connected approach to policymaking – one that transcends departmental silos, regional boundaries and disciplinary differences. By fostering a collaborative environment, the Policy Festival improves the way we work together across our profession and with other professions across the civil service. It is not a festival solely for those in the policy profession, but anyone involved in or interested in policymaking. Policymaking is a team sport and requires many skills and professional experts.
One of the most exciting aspects of this year’s festival is the emphasis on place-based policymaking. Featuring insights from the Darlington Economic Campus, Sheffield Policy Hub, the South West Policy Network, the Welsh Government and the Northern Ireland Civil Service, these sessions will delve into regional and national policymaking strategies. This focus not only acknowledges the diversity of challenges across different parts of the UK, but also highlights the importance of tailoring policies to meet the unique needs of local communities. Such discussions are vital, as they encourage us to think more creatively about how we can leverage localised strengths and address regional disparities.
Equally significant are the People in Policy sessions, which will delve into policy creation with, for and about citizens. By focusing on topics such as civil society (a diverse sector that includes volunteers, charitable and social enterprise organisations) and disability, this segment will help us reimagine how policies can be more inclusive and responsive to the needs of all citizens.
Another noteworthy component is The World View, where the focus shifts to climate and environmental issues. As we grapple with the urgent need to address environmental challenges, sessions on the Air Quality Act and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ environmental principles duty will provide critical insights into how we can craft policies that are not only effective, but also sustainable for future generations.
“Policy Festival 2024 is not just an event – it’s a vibrant community of policymakers committed to driving innovation and collaboration”
For those looking to expand their skillset and knowledge base, the Broadening Horizons segment offers a treasure trove of learning opportunities. There will be innovative discussions on the Chilcot Checklist – with lessons from the inquiry into the Iraq War, including the importance of avoiding groupthink – and the latest insights on the Procurement Act 2023, and how new flexibility in the way we procure goods and services gives greater control in designing and achieving outcomes for policymaking. These sessions promise to equip attendees with the tools they need to excel in an ever-evolving policy environment. I am particularly looking forward to the fireside chat with Martin Stanley, whose work on Understanding the Civil Service has proved invaluable to many.
The festival will kick off with a keynote session from me as head of the policy profession in conversation with cabinet secretary Simon Case and conclude with the celebratory annual awards ceremony. Looking forward to the awards, I am reminded of the collective achievements we have made as a community. There will be five categories this year, with the introduction of the Excellence in Policy award and the return of the Unsung Policy Hero and Rising Policy Star categories by popular demand.
I encourage all policymakers to seize this opportunity to connect with peers, gain new insights and celebrate our shared achievements. Policy Festival 2024 is not just an event – it’s a vibrant community of policymakers committed to driving innovation and collaboration. I look forward to seeing many of you there.
Tamara Finkelstein is permanent secretary of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and head of the policy profession