‘A human-centred approach in an uncertain world’

21 February 2023

Young people need ‘pragmatic and solution-orientated design-thinking’ as they develop skills, knowledge and behaviour on their Civic Journeys, says Professor Matt Flinders 

‘Young people need “social scaffolding” to reach their full potential’ 

17 February 2023

When thinking about support for the challenges young people face, Professor Matt Flinders says it’s right to use the language of access and growth. 

Taking a leap together

3 February 2023

Innovating around established norms and processes can be tough, frustrating, exciting, and joyful all at the same time. The heritage sector is ready for the adventure. 

Getting beyond the jargon 

25 January 2023

The Levelling Up White Paper brought the term ‘social infrastructure’ out of the shadows. But what does it mean, and why is it important? Richard Harries shares his thoughts. 

‘Let’s seize the optimism of this moment’

5 December 2022

Advisory Board member Page Nyame-Satterthwaite reflects on her recent visit to Parliament to discuss the youth-led Civic Journey programme.

Telling the whole story: why we must be open about the complexities of citizen science research

31 October 2022

Dr Helena Hollis says support structures can be developed to build participatory research capacities for the future.

‘In our quest for environmental sustainability, social responsibility is key’

19 October 2022 | Authors: Helen Goulden OBE,

Previewing our upcoming report, Helen Goulden looks for the ‘S’ in ESG – and asks if political and economic turbulence could knock it into the long grass? 

‘Perceptions of “good” have shifted – and insights are stronger for it’

5 October 2022 | Authors: Zoe Dibb,

Peer research can meaningfully involve communities in generating evidence – but Zoe Dibb says more must be done to evaluate quality and effectiveness.  

£3.7m award will support universities to maximise their local impact

30 September 2022

An ambitious, three-year programme will support universities to maximise their local social and economic impact.

Civic Journey documentaries

28 September 2022

Join us at locations around the UK, where we’re screening short films made by young people exploring their civic journey At the Institute for Community Studies, we have been working across the UK to support young people aged 16 to

‘Change starts with people like me’

23 September 2022

Mark Pepper is driving climate action at Ambition Lawrence Weston, a housing estate on the outskirts of Bristol.

‘Communities can power a fair transition’

23 September 2022 | Authors: Helen Goulden OBE,

Helen Goulden and Tim Davies-Pugh, say a fairer, greener future is not only possible, but advantageous for UK plc.

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