rafferty a. m. & traynor m. (2004) Journal of Nursing Management12, 258-265 Context, convergence and contingency: political leadership for nursingAim This paper attempts to illuminate some of the factors necessary to influence policy, using recent changes in the UK research policy as a case study. Background Changes in the UK research policy have shown how the profession can successfully influence a government agenda. Methods The paper critically reviews recent UK research policy with relevance for nursing. Results Successful policy change in nursing requires a contingent alignment of professional and governmental agendas. Conclusions Although nursing research has made significant gains over the last 10 years, there is need for the continued development of politically minded research leadership, lest these gains be lost.