Institute for Government

The machinations of government can be ponderous, and every day wasted has a knock-on effect for the UK’s population.

Whilst holding the post of Minister of Science and Innovation in the UK government at the turn of the 20th century, David Sainsbury noticed that both politicians and civil servants’ efforts to deliver activities were often held back by slow and outmoded processes in policymaking.

While this machinery could be somewhat improved from within, David felt that independent organisations would be best-placed to keep such reform on the ongoing agenda. Therefore, upon leaving office, the Institute for Government (IfG) was set up with Gatsby funding.

It is the leading thinktank working to make government more effective and, since 2008, Gatsby has contributed towards its annual core costs. The IfG functions as an independent, non-partisan charity and is a key component of the Gatsby public policy portfolio – aiming to support independent research organisations who provide evidence-based advice to policymakers.

With offices at 2 Carlton Gardens in St James Street, it is necessarily close to Westminster’s manifold government departments, agencies and public bodies. The team of approximately 50 people works with all political parties and senior civil servants in Whitehall – plus officials, academics, and other stakeholders across the UK – to promote more effective government through rigorous research, open discussion, and fresh thinking.

The IfG’s work examines the core institutions, processes and cross-cutting themes of UK government. These include parliament and the constitution, public services, Brexit, and the Pledge to Net Zero.

It recently set up the IfG Academy to coalesce its expertise on government, providing practical training and support. The Academy offers resources and tailored workshops for those inside and outside government, with the aim of utilising the limited time that governments and individuals have to make an impact on people’s lives.