A methodology for assessing the economic value of freshwater and marine environmental systems has led to a more cost-benefit based approach to implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive in the UK.

The Centre on Skills, Knowledge and Organisational Performance's research has informed the English Skills Strategy and policies in Finland, Norway and Australia.

Research from the Centre for Market and Public Organisation has been referenced in government strategy papers and informed US anti-poverty strategy.

Findings from the Research Centre on Micro-Social Change have informed policies against child poverty and reform of the UK tax system.

The ESRC Business Engagement Strategy scheme has funded a wide range of projects, resulting in benefits for both business and academia.

A Knowledge Transfer Partnership with Wakefield Family Services encouraged a culture shift towards using research to improve effectiveness, and the implementation of Research Governance Framework procedures.

More efficient scheduling led to estimated cost savings of over £400,000 a year at the Manchester Royal Infirmary by enabling 700 extra operations to be performed each year, reducing cancellations and over-runs.