This paper reflects on the experience in developing and implementing a communications strategy of several RPC funded by DFID. RPC are collaborative international research consortia that specialise in particular research themes, and “Aim […] to generate new policy-relevant knowledge that will help developing countries, the wider development community and DFID to eradicate world poverty, including meeting the MDGs by 2015”. The consortia include organisations from both developed and developing countries, and often include both academic and civil society organisations, as well as government institutions. Funding is for 5-6 years, and is for a programme of work on agreed themes, rather than a specific research project. Through this funding mechanism DFID encourage communication of research and capacity building, in addition to high quality research.

Title: Designing and implementing a communications strategy: lessons learnt from HIV and Sexual and Reproductive Health Research Programme Consortia Author: Annabelle South Year: 2011