The strength of the South West Observatory (SWO) is in its network of experts across themes and localities. By working together, sharing information and ideas, we obtain an accurate picture of a variety of issues affecting the South West and its local areas. We share best practice, avoid duplication and get better value for money by pooling resources.
It is SWO's aim to be the automatic first port of call for intelligence about policy issues affecting South West England and local areas. Using our network, we help those in policy-making by providing reliable and accurate information on which to base decisions and we try to help all interested parties (local, regional and national) to answer specific questions and use robust intelligence to inform their work.
SWO is made up of six Thematic Modules - covering the Economy, the Environment, Planning, Public Health, Skills & Learning and Culture - and eleven Local Intelligence Networks (LINs) - spanning the South West England 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.
Find out more about our current work on the 'What's New' page of this site.
