Abstract
The Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) is one of the most important policies that determine public expenditure of nearly one billion pounds in higher education. Although a minority of occupational therapy personnel are involved, all have an investment in the outcomes which support evidence-based services. This report outlines the Research and Development Board's responses to the Higher Education Funding Council's consultation exercises since 1997. The aim is to highlight the implications of this policy for supporting a research-active community, able to contribute to the development of the profession. Particular attention is given to the collaborative approach taken as a member of the Joint Therapies Research Group.
A longer-term, pragmatic strategy is described as part of the preparation for the next RAE in 2001 and beyond. This fits with the current fundamental review of research funding and policy and the recognition of the damage inflicted upon emergent disciplines and health service research by previous RAEs.
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