Working Group topics

Launched: 1st October 2026
Deadline: 23rd October

As you may be aware, a few months ago we launched a Working Group on Virtual Fencing, this was a pilot phase to help us determine the process for establishing and running AWRN Working Group. We are pleased to announce that the option for all AWRN members to suggest a topic for further AWRN Working Groups is now open.

 

Purpose of the AWRN Working Groups

The AWRN has earned a reputation as an “honest broker” between different stakeholders in the animal welfare space. Working Groups (WG) will leverage that reputation, bringing together expertise from academia, industry, NGOs, and government. WGs aim to translate animal welfare science into focused, actionable outputs and real-world improvements for animal welfare policy and practice within a defined timeframe. 

 Eligibility Criteria

All AWRN members are eligible to suggest Working Group topic.

 

What is the process for selecting Working Groups?

In addition to topics being suggested on this form, suggestions will be gathered from the AWRN Coordinating Group, Stakeholder Advisory Board (SAB) and our funding bodies. The full list will be collated and scored by the Coordinating Group and feedback will be sought from the SAB regarding stakeholder interest. The following criteria will be used to assess the suggested topics:

- Policy relevance and timeliness

- Strength of existing evidence base

- Feasibility within Working Group timeframe (typically a year or less)

- Stakeholder interest

- Potential for real-world impact, including planned outputs.

2-4 topics will be selected per year.

 

Who will be in the Working Groups?

Once a topic has been selected, the CG will appoint a Chair or Co-Chairs with relevant expertise and skills to organise the Working Group and invite them to take on the role. Membership of the Working Group will then be decided by the Chair and representatives from the AWRN Management Team / Coordinating Group (depending on expertise in the area). They must include representatives from:

- Academia

- Industry

- NGO's

- Government

 

What are the aims of the Working Groups?

Working Groups should initially discuss the topic and agree on the scope and outputs for the WG. They will then gather evidence, hold group discussions to interpret evidence and identify areas of consensus and disagreement and produce the agreed outputs. The outputs should include at least one of the following:

- Policy brief / white paper

- Publicly accessible report that reviews the evidence

- Stakeholder-facing document

- Academic publication

AND

Resources for the AWRN website

AND

Standard Operating Procedures (where relevant)

 

Timelines

The deadline for receiving suggestions for the 2026 year is 5pm on Friday 23rd October. Applications received after this date will not be considered.

Submit your suggestion!
   

Should you have any questions about this process, please get in touch with
the Network Manager and Assistant Manager on awrn-manager@bristol.ac.uk.