ABSTRACT
This chapter explores what is meant by stakeholders and how they may be categorised. The main focus is on strategic stakeholders, the decision-makers in the political institutions at the national level, and in the increasingly important Devolved Administrations and Local Government; the EU institutions are also discussed because they will remain important during the Brexit process and beyond. The main emphasis may well be on decision-makers and key influencers, but it very quickly becomes apparent that it is important to engage across the stakeholder spectrum for an effective programme. A sound understanding of the political institutions of a country is essential if an organisation is to engage effectively with the Government's decision-making process. The drive for greater decision-making, and accountability, to the regional level has also driven changes in Local Government, in the belief that they are best able to deliver the needs of their constituents.
