Student-led research for policy change
Students for Global Health’s National Working Groups bring together members from across the UK to investigate a specific global health issue and develop evidence-based recommendations for change.
Working Group members are supported by our Policy and Advocacy team and relevant mentors to build skills in research, policy analysis, collaborative writing and advocacy. Together, they examine existing evidence and policy, identify gaps and translate their findings into a substantial public output.
These publications showcase the knowledge, perspectives and recommendations of the students involved. They inform SfGH’s wider advocacy but are distinct from our formal policy positions, which are separately debated and approved by members at a National General Assembly.
From research to advocacy
National Working Groups run across the academic year. Members meet online approximately once a week, while also contributing research, writing and other agreed work between meetings.
01 – Defining the focus
The group begins by exploring its chosen issue, agreeing the scope of the project and identifying the central policy questions it wants to investigate.
02 – Research and evidence review
Members divide areas of research and undertake literature and policy reviews, examining the available evidence, existing commitments and experiences of affected communities.
03 – Analysis and recommendations
The group brings its findings together, identifies gaps in current policy and develops practical, evidence-based recommendations for change.
04 – Engaging partners and stakeholders
Members engage relevant charities, academics, professionals, people with lived experience and other stakeholders to strengthen the analysis and ensure a range of perspectives informs the work.
05 – Writing and publication
The findings and recommendations are developed into a substantial written output. Members work collaboratively through drafting, editing, referencing, design and communications.
06 – Advocacy and parliamentary engagement
The group develops a strategy for taking its recommendations to decision-makers. This includes supporting the planning of our Parliamentary Day of Action, engaging parliamentarians and partners, and communicating the findings to wider audiences.
New for 2026/27: two National Working Groups
Following higher-than-expected demand for places in 2025/26, we are expanding the programme and will run two National Working Groups during the 2026/27 academic year.
The groups will operate through our participation in two IFMSA Standing Committees:
- Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, including HIV and AIDS (SCORA);
- Human Rights and Peace (SCORP).
Each group will investigate a specific policy issue within its Standing Committee’s area of work and develop evidence-based recommendations for change.
Applications will open in September 2026. Participation is exclusive to Students for Global Health members.
Meet the 2025/26 National Working Group
Authors: Sandra Djoumessi Tonle, Adiba Islam, Grace Jones, Grace Kutuluby, Niamh Ní Cholmáin, Rithika Ravishankar
Campaign and Communications: Charlotte Perchard and Mai Sugimoto
Policy and Advocacy Directors: Rosie Marsh and Chloe Parry
Our Publications
2025/26: Policy Analysis of the UK’s International Women and Girls Strategy 2023–2030
This paper critically examines the UK Government’s International Women and Girls Strategy, identifying gaps in its approach to health, accountability and meaningful partnership. It presents student-led recommendations across areas including sexual and reproductive health and rights, non-communicable diseases, decolonised partnerships and future global health governance.
2024/25: Maternal Health Inequities for Asylum Seekers in the UK
This paper examines how current NHS and UK Government policy can reinforce maternal health inequities experienced by people seeking asylum and refugees. It explores systemic discrimination and the intersecting effects of race, immigration status and gender-based violence, before setting out recommendations for change.
Want to help shape our next project?
Join Students for Global Health to contribute to future National Working Groups, policy development and parliamentary advocacy.
Students for Global Health 