Evaluation is a contested field. This collection considers the relationship between evaluation and research, and the ethical and moral dilemmas raised when evaluating equity and widening participation in higher education. The growing demands for ‘evidence of impact’ frame expectations that we can justify government funding of particular university-led equity initiatives and understand ‘what works’ well enough to ensure that resources are being allocated and used appropriately. Drawing on the international seminar series they designed and facilitated over 2014-16, the editors have created a framework of praxis around contested understandings of ‘access’, ‘equity’ and ‘widening participation’ in HE. They and their authors have produced an invaluable resource for developing equity in research, evaluation and practice in higher education.