What is it.
A policy brief is a short, accessible document summarizing an issue, explaining why it matters, and identifying practical actions that governments, funders, or systems can take. Unlike research reports, policy briefs are designed for decision-makers who may have limited time to read the evidence or who may not be as familiar with the evidence. The purpose of a policy brief is to inform but also to support action.
How can it help me?
CYACs can share policy briefs with government partners, funders, and community partners to increase understanding of an issue or to share recommendations for action on an issue. Policy briefs can support funding applications, consultations with partners, presentations, and joint advocacy efforts.
Kindex policy briefs are meant to be helpful to CYACs across Canada. You can use the information to support your CYACs.
To ensure maximum benefit and impact, it is helpful to:
- Tailor the information to its intended audience
- State your main message clearly and early
- Combine research with local CYAC data where possible
- Connect recommendations to current government priorities
- Offer specific, realistic action
- Use clear, evidence-based language
Policy briefs can help CYACs turn evidence into action. When they are concise, targeted, and tied to clear advocacy goals. They can support and strengthen relationships with government and community partners, support funding requests, and advance a national coordinated response to child abuse across Canada.