About SERIO
In the new knowledge based economy, our most valued resource is information, but just as important is how this information can be used to develop strategy and policy. Observatories can add value to this process by providing impartial, robust and evidence based intelligence whilst also promoting and sharing learning about new approaches and best practice; reducing duplication; and mapping and filling needs gaps.
SERIO has been launched by the University of Plymouth in collaboration with Plymouth 2020 (the Local Strategic Partnership) in order to provide socio-economic research and intelligence for informed policy and decision making. Building on the foundations of the university’s existing Social Research & Regeneration Unit (SRRU), SERIO’s key intention is to generate targeted research and intelligence to organisations within the public, private, voluntary and community sectors, as well as to students and individual members of the public. SERIO’s staff work with, and across, all sectors of the economy to support local stakeholders by increasing the knowledge base and enabling partners to capitalise upon opportunities.
In doing so SERIO contributes to a number of key university Objectives and it also supports Plymouth 2020 Partnership.
About Plymouth 2020 Partnership
Plymouth 2020 Local Strategic Partnership brings together many organisations and groups that are involved in making decisions that affect the future well-being of the people of Plymouth. The voluntary, community, business and public sectors are all represented within Plymouth 2020 Partnership. Its vision for the city is to become one of Europe's finest, most vibrant waterfront cities, where an outstanding quality of life is enjoyed by everyone.
For more information, please visit Plymouth 2020.
SERIO and Plymouth 2020 working together
Since its launch SERIO has been instrumental in setting up the Plymouth Analysts Network (PAN), a forum for discussion and dissemination of shared data which is administered through the LSP. SERIO has helped the LSP forge links with South West Observatory and has assisted in PAN becoming a member of the Local Intelligence Network.
SERIO is also supervising a Knowledge Transfer Partnership project to support the LSP. Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP) is Europe's leading programme helping businesses and other organisations to improve their competitiveness and productivity through the better use of knowledge, technology and skills that reside within the UK knowledge base.
The Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project specifically addresses the use of data for developing an evidence base for Plymouth, this work will be used as a case study to spread good practice and embed a cultural change. The Plymouth 2020 Partnership is currently unable to fully understand the challenges facing the city such as poor health, high levels of poverty and deprivation. The project will develop data sharing, analysis and research capabilities within the Plymouth 2020 Partnership leading to improved understanding of key issues facing the City. Effectively evidencing outcome achievement is crucial for Council audits and inspections.
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