Since its inception in 2002, the South West Observatory has grown in resources, capacity and prominence, both within the region and on the national stage. Consistently, it is the South West Observatory’s network model that is held up to others in the country as the best practice example in local and regional intelligence networking. As such we are pleased to work with other regional observatories to share ideas and to share best practice.
The unique strength of the South West Observatory is in its network of experts across themes and localities. By working together, sharing information and ideas, we are able to obtain an accurate picture of the region and its parts. Between network partners we can share best practice, avoid duplication and get better value for money by pooling our resources.
The network works together to disseminate information to a wide audience of regional and sub-regional stakeholders, working directly or indirectly in analysis, strategy and policy-making. Channelling our news, events and publications through a variety of media we are able to reach a wide range of regional players. Using these means, we seek to equip those in policy-making with the most reliable and accurate information on which to base their decisions.
We also work to assist regional and national agencies, local authorities and other interested parties with general or specific enquiries that they may need for their work. It is the South West Observatory’s aim to be the automatic first port of call for intelligence about the South West region and its parts and with any one of our constituent bodies acting as a portal to our entire network of experts and resources and we are able to help with timely and relevant replies to almost all enquiries.
The South West Observatory is made up of six thematic Modules - covering the Economy, the Environment, Planning, Public Health, Skills & Learning and Culture - and currently seven Local Intelligence Networks (LINs) - spanning the region from Cornwall to Wiltshire and Gloucestershire. At the centre of the network is the Observatory’s Core Unit (a company limited by guarantee) which facilitates and disseminates network activity. For more information on SWO Modules, please click here. For further information on LINs click here.
In addition, the South West Observatory also works with a range of additional regional partners on a variety of issues. For information on the wider Obseratory network please click here.
The South West Observatory regularly attends RIG (Regional Intelligence Group) meetings and chairs ORG (Operational Research Group) meetings. For more information on these, including previous minutes, please click here.
