IN THIS LESSON

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world..

Why Their Reports Matter

Select Committee reports:

  • Uncover what’s really happening in government departments

  • Highlight the real-world impact of policies on people and communities

  • Make recommendations for change, which government often responds to

  • Are quoted in Parliament, media, and even court cases

What You’ll Find in a Report

Most reports follow a structure like this:

1️⃣ Summary

A plain-language overview of the findings and recommendations. Start here to get the gist.

2️⃣ Introduction

Explains why the inquiry was launched, the scope of investigation, and how evidence was gathered.

3️⃣ Chapters/Sections

Each chapter explores a theme (e.g. school exclusions, asylum housing, policing standards) and draws on evidence.

Look out for:
✔️ Quotes from witnesses — including charities, civil servants, campaigners
✔️ Statistics and government data
✔️ Challenges identified in how policy is working (or failing)

4️⃣ Conclusions and Recommendations

Clearly numbered and bolded, these are what the Committee believes should change. Government departments are expected to respond to each one.

How to Engage With a Report

📌 Step 1: Skim the Summary

Get a feel for the issue and whether it connects to your community, campaign or cause.

📚 Step 2: Scan the Recommendations

Are they strong? Are they watered down? Are any key issues missing?

💡 Step 3: Find the Evidence

See who gave input. If you or your organisation weren’t included — you can highlight that gap.
If your views were represented, amplify them.

Points of Influence

During Inquiry > Submit written evidence, give oral testimony, support others doing so

After Report Is Published > Use key findings in campaigns, media, petitions, sermons, or school projects

Government Response Stage > Pressure MPs or Ministers to adopt the recommendations — especially strong ones

Accountability Phase > Follow up with Parliamentary Questions or letters to check if changes were made

Real-World Example

Select Committee on Education (2023):
A report on persistent school absence recommended better support for mental health, home-education tracking, and targeted funding. Charities cited this report in media interviews and local authorities adjusted their interventions.

Final Tip

Reports are non-partisan and evidence-based, which gives you credibility when using them in your advocacy. They’re often overlooked — but they’re one of the most powerful tools available to the public.