Reporting to the Board are three policy groups which cover in more detail scientific issues in the sectors of education, health, public affairs and sustainability. The groups usually operate in partnership with other organisations with relevant interests in the specific sectors.

The policy groups identify and act upon major issues relevant to those sectors.  Presentations by leading experts in the field are a regular feature of meetings to stimulate debate and help to progress projects.  The policy groups are composed of experts in the sector from member organisations and invited advisors from organisations with significant influence in the sector.  Others are invited as advisers on an ad hoc basis as relevant to the agenda and for special working groups for projects and surveys.