Policy and Research
Our policy work focusses on social sciences for public benefit, based on evidence: how new proposals may affect social science research or teaching; what social scientists do in their work; and how social scientists can contribute to policy and public debate.
Reimagining the recipe for research and innovation: the secret sauce of social science
Our new report emphasises the vitally important, yet often poorly-understood, role of the social sciences to the UK’s current research, development and innovation system, and outlines four key ingredients that the social sciences contribute to enable world-leading and future-focused UK research.
Delivering civic value to communities – the impact of UK universities’ social science research
In this Higher Education Policy Institute blog, our Head of Policy and Public Affairs, Ed Bridges, uses a range of examples from the REF Impact Case Study (ICS) dataset, to illustrate how social science research is making communities better, reducing inequalities, delivering value for money and serving governments well in their policy agendas.
Social science must be at the heart of research policy
Government attention to research and innovation is increasingly focused on STEM. But for our Chief Executive, Dr Rita Gardner, social sciences are what make the whole ecosystem work for society.
Policy Themes
Our policy work covers these four distinct themes. See our most recent work relevant to each topic below.
Policy Monitor
Latest Consultations:
We produce a monthly list of UK Government and parliamentary consultations and inquiries that require social science evidence. Use the list to submit evidence in your area of expertise – and share the link!