Evaluation Services Unit

Delivering high-quality, affordable evaluation services across government.

The Evaluation Services Unit (ESU) was launched by the Open Innovation Team in 2024 to make it quicker, easier and more affordable for civil servants to deliver high-quality evaluations.

Operating like an in-house consultancy, the ESU works across the evaluation lifecycle. Our team of experienced specialists provides end-to-end support, from advice on scoping and design to full delivery - including process and impact evaluations.  

Since its launch, the ESU has supported projects including:

Trials on tackling organised exploitation (Home Office)

A randomised controlled trial of a police video call pilot (College of Policing)

Evaluations of Sanctuary Schemes (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government)

We work with all government departments and ALBs, and partner with the Cabinet Office’s Evaluation Task Force to ensure our work is joined up and adds maximum value.  

Teams across policy, analysis, delivery, and other functions can access ESU support without a lengthy procurement process. Scoping and agreeing work can take as little as a week.

To find out more, download the ESU “About Us” deck or contact the team at: [email protected].