Phronaseum: Independent Local Government think Tank
Bridging research and policy to inform local governance through practitioner-led insights and evidence-based approaches.
Contact: phronaseum@s3ia.net
Purpose and Mission
Bridge Research and Policy
Connecting expert evidence with practitioner views
Practitioner-Led Approach
Developing communities of practice
Catalyst for Change
Influencing policy through civic thought leadership
The Phronaseum serves the Local Government community by addressing public policy issues through research, debate facilitation, and policy maker engagement. We focus on what works and what needs to change, generating knowledge and proposing initiatives that contribute to a better society. Our specific focus on civic and societal resilience informs our approach to civic thought leadership and statecraft.
Our Key Stakeholders
Local Government
Primary consumers of our research and services
Community Members
Professionals and researchers in Local Government
Researchers & Academics
Contributing expertise as research associates
Partner Organisations
As we develop organisations will be invited to partner with us.
We engage with a diverse range of voices to ensure comprehensive input into our work. Beyond our primary stakeholders, we also work with policymakers, funders, sponsors, and media to disseminate research and promote informed public debate.
Methodology and Approach
Venn Diagram Validation
Highest level validation, examining multi disciplinary cross over through Chatham House style consultation
Virtual Entity with Colloquiums
Digital platforms with in-person workshops at existing conferences
Strategic Partnerships
Collaborating with individuals and organisations for defined objectives
Open Access Knowledge
Creative commons licensing for all academic outputs
Our approach emphasises flexibility, adaptability, and transparency. We focus on policy questions and problem-solving rather than purely academic research. As a learning organisation, we continuously evolve to meet changing needs while maintaining credibility through transparent operations.
Funding Streams
Pro Bono & Grants
Initial funding through grants and pro bono contributions to establish operations and early research initiatives.
Sponsorships & Partnerships
Strategic sponsorships and partnerships with organisations like Socitm to cover research expenses and support dissemination activities.
Project-Based Funding
Targeted funding for specific research projects and consultancies, maintaining independence through diversified funding sources.
We prioritise domestic funding while accepting sponsorship from non-UK based companies where appropriate. Our funding strategy aims to maintain independence through diversification, with a focus on securing core funding to ensure our ability to conduct independent research without undue influence.
Our Research Outputs
Research Reports
Comprehensive research reports including literature reviews and background documents that provide in-depth analysis of policy issues.
Policy Briefs
Concise policy briefs presenting research findings and actionable recommendations for policymakers and practitioners.
Digital Content
Blogs, articles, podcasts, presentations, and videos disseminated through various digital channels and partner organisations.
All our outputs are freely accessible through creative commons licensing, emphasising our commitment to open knowledge sharing and broad dissemination of research findings.
Governance and Management
1
Independent Board
Responsible for long-term vision and ensuring financial stability
2
Legal Structure
Provided through the Local Digital Services CIC
3
Flexible Associates
Light governance structure using associates when needed
4
Quality Assurance
Established processes to ensure credibility and transparency
Our governance model emphasises transparency and credibility while maintaining the flexibility needed to adapt to changing circumstances. We recognise the reputational risk that comes from opaque funding and communications, and therefore make transparency a priority in all our operations.
Join the Phronaseum Community
Contribute Research
Join our pool of research associates and contribute your expertise to addressing local government challenges.
Partner With Us
Explore strategic partnerships for research dissemination, funding, or collaborative projects.
Attend Our Events
Participate in our virtual workshops, colloquiums, and in-person events at existing conferences.
Support Our Work
Consider sponsorship or funding opportunities to help us maintain our independence and expand our research.
The Phronaseum is committed to serving the Local Government community through practitioner-led research and evidence-based policy recommendations. Join us in our mission to bridge the gap between research and policy, ensuring that expert evidence informs policy debates and implementation.