Drone shot of the Gilbert Scott Building

Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021

REF2021 Results

Social Policy research at Glasgow draws from the School of Social and Political Science (SPS), the School of Interdisciplinary Studies (SIS) and the Institute of Health and Wellbeing (IHW). We are united in our commitment to civic social science, and share common interests in tackling social inequalities and injustices, nationally and internationally, through policy-relevant research underpinned by social theoretical expertise and methodological rigour. We are delighted to receive the results from our REF 2021 submission, with 95% of our work overall being recognised as ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent.’

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Impact Case Studies

Impact of UofG Research

Social Policy research at Glasgow seeks to understand, challenge, and ameliorate social inequalities and injustices. We aim to make a difference, by engaging constructively with public debate, policy development, professional practices, and the lived experiences of citizens.

Research Culture and Environment

Social Policy research at Glasgow reflects seriously on the challenges facing social policy, is creative and publicly engaged, and is independent, critical and reflexive. Our research is organised in four thematic areas (Health and Wellbeing, Crime and Justice, Migration, Racism and Citizenship, and Digital and Social Transformations). These incorporate research and teaching staff and are collegial, collaborative forums for incubating research ideas, for peer review and support. 

Celebrating our Partnerships

Social Policy research at Glasgow is rooted in partnerships. We imagine, design and conduct much of our research in collaboration with both academic and non-academic partners, together analysing social problems and injustices, thus informing the development, delivery and reform of preventive and responsive social policy at local, national and international levels. 

Celebrating Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Our multidisciplinary approach to researching the dynamics of digital society has been supported by 13 grants (almost £1m) to enable examinations of how digital technologies (services, devices, networks) shape and intersect with social, political and cultural change, such as: smart innovations in public services using AI and related technologies.  

Future of Research at Glasgow

Going forward, we aim to generate income from diverse sources, expand our research with academic and non-academic partners and continue our work in response to COVID, including paying close attention to minimising the burden of research participants and researchers.