The Link Officer role is critical as they act as the bridge between research in practice for adults and Partner agencies. If Partner agencies are to gain the best value for money, the Link Officer preferably needs to be a second or third tier operational officer who works with at least one other colleague who is located within planning or staff development. This combination ensures that participation in the research in practice for adults' network can be fully integrated into the agency's work to promote and support the use of evidence in service delivery.

The key to success in being an effective change agent is to have the support of senior managers and open channels of communication. Without these elements, the potential for establishing evidence-informed practice within the agency is limited.

The following tasks help define the role of Link Officer:

1. Acting as the key link person in the partnership between your agency and research in practice for adults
2. Promoting the use of evaluated research as a tool to improve services and outcomes.
3. Identifying opportunities for special projects and joint working that fit the strategic aims of your agency
4. Contributing to the integration of evidence-informed practice in your organisation
5. Participating in ongoing research in practice for adults Change Projects with other Partner agencies if beneficial to your services
6. Being the key person responsible for bookings, correspondence and cancellations for Learning Events and for monitoring and disseminating related materials
7. Playing a key role in ensuring that your agency places are taken up on the annual Directors' Policy Forum and the annual Councillors and Trustees Seminar
8. Managing and distributing publications and development materials from research in practice for adults
9. Encouraging the use of the website and the discussion forum
10. Keeping research in practice for adults informed of any change of Link Officer or contact details, including the title of your agency, and passing on all relevant information to new Link Officers
11. Attending the residential Link Officers' Annual Meeting along with any Regional Meetings

Further details on the role of Link Officer and practical hints and tips for carrying it out can be found in the Link Officer handbook and its appendices.

Please click here to download a copy of our Link Officer Handbook.  If you would like to receive a hard copy of the handbook in the post or have any questions please contact our office on 01803 869753 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .