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Public sector consultation market research

Our Public Sector Consultation Unit (PSCU) creates tailor-made solutions, identifying the most effective blend of approaches to suit the specific needs of each consultation programme. We support clients across central and local government, public sector bodies, non-profits, and commercial organisations, generating insight that drives strategic decision-making, policy development, and service improvement.

Our approach combines rigorous research methodologies with a deep understanding of consultation processes and regulatory frameworks. Whether engaging members of the general public, specific interest groups, community organisations, industry representatives or policymakers, we help our clients achieve transparent, inclusive, and actionable consultation outcomes.

The flexibility and scale to deliver the powerful insights you need

As a full-service consultancy with a specific PSCU, DJS Research has the in-house capabilities to meet the stringent requirements of consultations of any scale. We understand the complexities of both statutory and advisory consultations, and the close levels of scrutiny they can face; our PSCU leads excel at devising unique and robust solutions which withstand close inquiry.

Large-scale public consultations mean large volumes of data. We have the operational capability to receive and analyse high response volumes and the agility to make real-time changes to resources to match changing response rates. Our in-house Data Processing team has the skill and proficiency to handle large data sets, and analyse complex closed-response questions, along with specialist coders who can conduct thematic sentiment analysis of open-text responses.

We can also offer additional services to evaluate consumer sentiment around consultations, including listening to social media ‘chatter’ and analysis of online forums. These insights can deepen understanding, highlight perspectives not previously considered or help quantify themes detected through more traditional qualitative and quantitative methods.

A proven track record in consultation excellence

Our PSCU has led on statutory consultations for mayoral combined authorities and central government departments, including the Department for Health and the Home Office, as well as more advisory consultations on behalf of local authorities about local infrastructure development. The core requirements of each consultation are identified from the outset and considered throughout the research process, from how they are communicated and conducted through to the quality checks applied, methods of coding used and dissemination of findings.

Our in-depth knowledge of processes and frameworks enables us to provide a full suite of services across the consultation lifecycle which includes:

  • Strategic consultation design: Tailored to meet organisational needs and aligned with legal and ethical standards (e.g., Gunning Principles, HM Government Consultation Principles).
  • Stakeholder mapping and engagement planning: To maximise the transparency and legitimacy of the process.
  • Mixed-method consultation delivery: Including multi-channel methods and qualitative engagement such as focus groups and deliberative events.
  • Public consultation campaigns: Working closely with communications teams and agencies to maximise participation and inclusivity.
  • Analysis, reporting and feedback: Providing clear, impartial analysis of consultation data, highlighting key themes, patterns, and levels of support for various proposals. Our reports are tailored for transparency and accessibility, suitable for both internal strategic use and public publication.

Our PSCU has undertaken a wide number of consultations on a variety of topics, including local authority budget consultations, transport and infrastructure projects, health and social care transformation and regulatory changes and statutory obligations.

To find out more and speak to a member of our Public Sector Consultation Unit, contact Research Directors Matt Bristow or Julie Hollingsworth.

Explore our case studies archive

Some of the clients we've worked with using public sector consultation market research

Some of the clients we've worked with using public sector consultation market research

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Why partner with DJS Research?

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We build small, director-led, teams of sector experts who are with you from brief to debrief. As an employee-owned company, every one of us is invested in delivering quality, value, and long-term impact.

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From agile testing to deep-dive strategic studies, we design research to meet your specific objectives. The agility of our in-house operations team and strength of our UK-wide recruiter network enable seamless execution at scale.

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Our sector-focused teams have decades of experience understanding audiences and the complexities of the markets in which our clients operate. Working collaboratively we deliver actionable insight which drives positive change.

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Contact us to discuss your market research project and how we can become an extension of your team.

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Contact us to discuss your market research project and how we can become an extension of your team.

Contact us