Departmental Consultations are an opportunity for stakeholders and the wider public to contribute to the policy making process. Scientists can and should help shape policy and identify the options and needs for better inclusion of science in evidence-based policy.

Consultations are advertised on Departmental websites along with information on "live" and closed consultations, responses to consultations and a library of closed consultation and their responses.

Consultations are normally in written form although other processes such as public surveys, stakeholder/public meetings, web forums, focus groups, regional events and targeted leaflet campaigns may be used, especially where stakeholders may be difficult to reach. A written consultation period is twelve weeks but may be longer under special circumstances. Consultation focuses questions on specific areas of policy, identifying key assumptions and the risks and consequences of doing nothing. Representative groups providing evidence will be asked to give a summary of the people and organisations they represent.

Deadlines for responses and contact details for submissions will also be given.

The effectiveness of consultations is monitored by the Cabinet Office.