We recognise the value of discussion and engagement arising from participation by those involved in developing and delivering the REF at conferences, forums and events. We take the position that information and guidance about the REF should be freely and equally available to all participating institutions, and other interested parties.
Who does this policy apply to?
In this policy we refer to REF colleagues which covers:
- REF team members
- Steering group members
- Panel members, advisors or secretaries
- Anyone involved in developing and delivering the REF
When does the policy apply?
- When any of the above are speaking at an event that charges delegates an attendance fee (‘pay-for events’)
Introduction
- It is the funding bodies’ position that information and guidance about the REF should be freely and equally available to all participating institutions, and other interested parties.
- We recognise the value of the discussion and engagement arising from participation in conferences, forums and events. We also recognise the value gained in participating in events, through increased feedback on, and engagement with, current issues relating to the exercise.
- To balance both these aspects in communicating on the REF, we have developed the following policy that will govern the attendance, in a speaking capacity, at events that charge delegates an attendance fee (‘pay-for events’).
Policy
- When speaking at a pay-for event, REF colleagues, (as defined above), will not present any new information about REF 2029.
- REF colleagues must only use presentation material drawn from publicly available information. Where possible, slide packs will be published on the REF website.
- REF colleagues taking part in a Q&A session must only share information drawn from publicly available material.
- To manage the resource demands of participation at pay-for events, REF colleagues will consider invitations in the context of current workloads and communication objectives.
- In terms of travel costs, the REF team will cover these if a REF colleague is already intending to visit that location; where this is not the case, the event hosts will be asked to cover expenses.