
Influencing Policy & Practice
We help shaping systems to better support children, families, and frontline professionals
At Innovating Minds, we believe real change happens when policy and practice align.
That’s why our work goes beyond programme delivery. We actively engage in shaping the systems, structures, and strategies that govern how support is accessed and experienced.
Partner With Us to Influence Change. Collaborate on policy-shaping projects or strategic initiatives.

Driving Systemic Change
Through our partnerships with local authorities, schools, NHS services, and voluntary sector organisations, we gather insight from frontline delivery and lived experience.
We use this to influence local and national conversations on mental health, trauma-informed practice, and early intervention, ensuring policies reflect the realities and needs of those they’re designed to serve.
Informing Practice Through Evidence
Our work is grounded in evidence and co-production with the people we are here to serve. We generate real-world impact data to demonstrate what works and why. This approach helps decision-makers adopt scalable, sustainable models of support that improve outcomes for children, young people, and families.
We share learning with:
- Local and national policymakers
- Research bodies and funders
- Professional networks and communities of practice
- Public health and education stakeholders
Policy & Practice Influence in Action
Check our free resources to learn more:
Read our article on "Why a new safeguarding law is still leaving many children at risk"
Discover Innovating Minds response to the domestic abuse commissioners' report
Listen to the podcast "Empowering Children: Healing from Domestic Abuse with Dr. Asha Patel & The Safe & Together Institute"
Go to the Science Direct article on "The impact of the healing together programme for children and young people affected by domestic abuse"
Listen to the round table event "Domestic Abuse and Community Safety" with Jim Nixon at RHE Global & Dr Asha Patel"

Expert Voice Shaping National Conversations on Mental Health and Trauma
Dr Asha Patel delivers powerful keynotes nationwide, influencing policy by bridging clinical expertise, lived experience, and evidence-based practice to drive sustainable system change across education, health & social care.

National Conferences
Delivering expert workshops and keynotes on adopting trauma-informed approaches, the impact of domestic abuse on children, self-harm, suicide prevention, violence prevention and vicarious trauma.

Trusted Expert for Radio
Dr Asha Patel is regularly called upon as a trusted expert for radio interviews, including features on BBC West Midlands and the BBC Asian Network.

Featured on TV
Dr Asha Patel has appeared on national TV, sharing expert insights on children’s mental health and emotional wellbeing.