This report looks at the key lessons we can learn from Nice for other areas of social policy.

Key findings

Lesson 1: Use a mix of research methods, not just RCTs. 
Lesson 2: Ask the public. Research evidence is not enough. NICE uses bodies like Citizen Councils to help glean the views of the wider world.
Lesson 3: Work directly with frontline professionals. 
Lesson 4: Create ‘moral authority’ to influence, not the threat of law. 
Lesson 5: Be arms-length from Government.

What can be learned from NICE that might work for other institutions? There is a lot of misunderstanding about their approach outside of health expert circles. This paper aims to bust some of those myths. We hope that clearly articulating the NICE model will inspire others to follow the approach. 

The key recommendation is for more people to engage with wider social values and interests – getting service users, providers and others involved is vital to success.