1. Communicating Particle Physics to UK opinion formers
Terry O’Connor
EPPCN – 12 April 2012

2. Objective
Secure maximum ongoing public and political support for particle physics research in the United Kingdom, by:
Promoting the significant scientific, societal and economic benefits of current and past investments in the discipline
Timeframe:
April 2011 to March 2015
Measured by:
Increased positive media coverage and editorials
Statements of support from parliamentarians and non-physics opinion formers
Anecdotal or hard evidence of ongoing public support

3. Risks
Announcement of Higgs and subsequent shutdown may be conflated in the public/political sphere
Potential for erroneous presumption that LHC is no longer required
Adverse publicity may affect future interest by students/graduates in physics, and funding from parliament
Timing critical:
Next UK Government spending round may start early – Evidence from early 2013
Announcement possibly late 2013

4. Key audiences Politicians and associated advisers
More “political” than “media” but needs strong media focus as influencers
Highlight the wider societal, economic and international benefits from particle physics more widely, not just CERN
Hard evidence needed of direct benefits – new material
Heavy emphasis on skills transfers, inspirational nature of PP in encouraging wider STEM take-up
Tie-in required with international activities, eg:
Brussels exhibition and European PP strategy launch
International developments
Need to answer question of “What is going to happen next?”

5. Discussion