Yorkshire Universities have been awarded £3.9 million to set up a network with local authorities.

The funding will allow research done by Sheffield Hallam and the University of Sheffield to be connected with local authorities.

Findings by the universities, as well as others across Yorkshire, will be used to tackle economic and social challenges across the county, by providing detailed analysis of where investment is most needed.

Research by The Yorkshire and Humber Policy Engagement and Research Network (or Y-PERN) will also influence infrastructure policy.

Professor Karen Bryan OBE, Chair of Yorkshire Universities, said: “This is a unique initiative, which involves all twelve member institutions of Yorkshire Universities, drawing upon diverse and complementary research strengths.

Image: Twitter – YorkshireUnis

“Y-PERN aligns perfectly with our new 2022-25 strategy, which is focused on informing public policy with practice that is underpinned by research, innovation and knowledge exchange.”

Oliver Coppard, Mayor of South Yorkshire, added: “Y-PERN is an exciting new venture for Yorkshire, bringing together the expertise from our universities and the local knowledge of our authorities, and we are pleased to support it.

“It will add capacity and resources to our vital work around skills, employment, sustainability and data analysis.

“The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority already works closely with our universities, Sheffield Hallam and the University of Sheffield, and this will help us build on those relationships, and boost their impact.”

Recent work by Yorkshire Universities has led to the strengthening of workforce recruitment and retention in the healthcare sector, as well as helping to develop the regions Space Hub.

After these successes, the new funding has secured the next three years of research and implementation.