The new practice will complement Thinks’ existing research and strategy practice and its Behavioural Science Advisory Service, and seek to offer local and central government bodies support in innovative engagement policies with citizens.

The dialogue practice will be led by Lucy Farrow (pictured), who is a deliberative researcher and engagement specialist and visiting fellow at Lancaster University, focusing on participatory climate policy making as part of the Climate Citizens initiative.

Also joining the team is Paul Carrol, director, who was previously qualitative researcher at Ipsos, with experience in sectors including transport and infrastructure, health, the environment and politics.

Emily Cowles-Naja, Grace Evans and Louis Mylne have also joined the practice, bringing dialogue experience from third sector specialists Renaisi, in-house at the CQC and dialogue agency Hopkins Van Mill respectively.

Chair and co-founder at Thinks Viki Cooke said: “As someone who pioneered deliberative methods in the UK, I am immensely proud that we are launching a specialist practice in dialogue and engagement. 

“The expert team is already proving itself to be incredibly successful, working closely on a number of major challenges including Change.NHS, the government’s biggest ever conversation with the public and staff to inform the NHS 10-year plan.”  

Farrow added: “Involving citizens in the decisions that affect their lives has never been more important in the context of political polarisation and eroding trust in institutions.

“In my four years at Thinks, I’ve seen our practice go from strength to strength, and I’m looking forward to continuing to develop our unique offer of practical dialogue solutions that address real world policy and social challenges.”