Research
The School for Policy Studies is a world-renowned centre for the theory, practice and implementation of social and public policy research. Our focus is on the determinants of social problems and the responses to them by governments, policy makers and practitioners.
We combine innovative conceptual thinking with diverse methodologies to address social problems from the local to the global in relation to poverty, health, care, harm, governance, inequalities, and wellbeing. We embrace a distinctive multidisciplinary approach drawing on expertise in social and public policy, social work, childhood studies, disability studies, criminology, social gerontology, and epidemiology & public health.
Our academics have research links to over 60 countries across all continents, and we work collaboratively with a range of partners, from academic institutions to governments, international organisations to local community groups.
Impact and engagement
Our research aims to improve people's lives. Explore recent examples of how our research has made a difference.
Our research
We address global social problems of care, poverty, health, harm, governance, and wellbeing.
Research 2025
80% of our research is rated 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent' Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Research, analysis and commentary on coronavirus
Latest publications
Roy J. 2021 Children living with parental substance misuse: A cross-sectional profile of children and families referred to children’s social care Child and Family Social Work
Jago R et al. 2021 Children’s moderate-to-vigorous physical activity on weekdays versus weekend days: A multi-country analysis International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity
Canning V. & Tombs S. 2021 From Social Harm to Zemiology Routledge