Strengthening user engagement in UK statistics: lessons from our roundtable with OSR

We have published a report from a roundtable held in February 2026 with the Office for Statistics Regulation (OSR), exploring what effective user engagement looks like in practice across the UK statistical system. 

The roundtable was convened in the context of the refreshed Code of Practice for Statistics, which places stronger emphasis on understanding how statistics are used and ensuring user insight meaningfully shapes decisions. The discussion brought together regulators, statistics producers, users and engagement specialists, reflecting a shared recognition that meaningful engagement is critical to both the quality of statistics and public confidence in them. 

Participants explored common challenges in user engagement, including reaching beyond established networks, navigating contested or polarised issues, and rebuilding trust where users feel uncertain about whether their input is heard. 

From these discussions, three clear priorities for change emerged: 

• Shift from one-off consultations to ongoing relationships: engagement needs to be more relational and participatory, building trust over time and involving users more directly 

• Strengthen transparency and feedback: users should be able to see how their input has influenced decisions, understand why some needs cannot yet be met and know how to get involved 

• Create a more consistent approach across the system: engagement practices should be aligned with the Code of Practice, so users experience clearer, more predictable ways to contribute across the statistical system. 

User engagement is essential to ensuring official statistics serve the public good. Trusted intermediaries, clearer feedback loops and visible engagement infrastructure all have a key role to play in strengthening trust and impact, and we look forward to continuing to work with OSR on implementing improved engagement techniques in these areas.  

Read the full report.