Institute for Community Studies

Policy brief for our journey to net zero

Publication 12 October 2023

This policy brief presents research findings and recommendations for how to ensure the UK’s transition to net zero leaves no one behind. It shares insights from a two-year programme of work, funded by the Nuffield Foundation..

‘What is citizen science’

Blog 9 October 2023

In this video, the Institute for Community Studies and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) explore what ‘citizen science’ means, and how it’s changing the way that research is done.

Experiences of ‘citizen science’

Publication 9 October 2023

This is the first in a series of short discussion papers produced by the Institute for Community Studies to share learnings and reflections from the UKRI-funded Citizen Science Collaboration Grants.

‘How can we ensure a people-powered transition?’

Blog 29 September 2023

Our CEO, Helen Goulden OBE, spoke on a panel about what a people-powered transition to net zero would look like at the Liberal Democrats conference 25 September 2023.

‘Communities must be at the heart of a people-powered transition to net zero’

Blog 11 May 2023

The independent review calls for widespread participation in low-carbon living – yet government policy hasn’t changed, says Samanthi Theminimulle.

‘Vital and timely’ net zero policy research

News 14 April 2023

Funding from the British Academy will drive a six-month project exploring place-sensitive participatory policy development for a ‘just transition’ to net zero.

‘Health equality has been de-prioritised for decades’ 

Blog 13 March 2023

Emily Morrison highlights the ‘triple injustice’ in knowledge and evidence, gender identity, and social policy that perpetuates health inequity. 

‘Our transition to net zero must be government-led and people-powered’ 

Blog 10 March 2023

To achieve the UK’s net zero goals, we need a united department at the heart of Westminster, says Emily Morrison 

Call for evidence launches to inform policy for youth engagement

News 9 March 2023

Our Civic Journey programme announces a call for evidence to help shape policy recommendations to support young people to develop as active and empowered citizens.

‘A human-centred approach in an uncertain world’

Blog 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’ 

Blog 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. 

Getting beyond the jargon 

Blog 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.