The DJS Research Public Sector Consultation Unit (PSC Unit) works with public and third sector organisations to design, carry out and analyse large-scale, multi-channel public and stakeholder consultations and engagement programmes. We support clients across central and local government, public sector bodies, non-profits, and commercial organisations in gaining 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 the general public, specific interest groups, community organisations, industry representatives or policymakers, we help our clients achieve transparent, inclusive, and actionable consultation outcomes.

As a full-service consultancy with a specialist PSC Unit, DJS Research have the in-house capabilities to meet the stringent requirements of consultations of any scale. Our public sector focused researchers create tailor-made solutions, identifying the most effective blend of methodological approaches to suit the specific needs of each consultation. Our operational capabilities mean we can conduct complex, large-scale projects which deliver meaningful, actionable insight every time. Our strengths include:

• Significant operational resource which enables us to receive and analyse high response volumes, with the flexibility and agility to make real-time changes to match response rates.
• Our in-house Data Processing team who have the skill and proficiency to handle large data sets, and analyse complex closed-response questions
• Coding specialists who can conduct detailed thematic sentiment analysis of open-text responses.
• Provision of additional services such as the evaluation of consumer sentiment around consultations. This may include listening to social media ‘chatter’ and analysis of online forums. Such insights can deepen understanding, highlight perspectives not previously considered or can help quantify themes detected through more traditional qualitative and quantitative methods.

The breadth of our PSC experience means we understand the complexities of both statutory and advisory consultations, and the close levels of scrutiny they can face; our team create robust solutions which fulfil the unique needs of each project and can withstand close inquiry. Our PSC Unit have led on statutory consultations for mayoral combined authorities and central government departments such as 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 and analysis used and disemination 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 organisational needs and which are 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 - includes working 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. ALL DJS Research reports are tailored for transparency and accessibility, suitable for both internal strategic use and external publication.

The DJS Research PSC Unit have undertaken a 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 at mbristow@djsresearch.com or Julie Hollingsworth at jhollingsworth@djsresearch.com or phone 01663 767 857.

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