Research themes

DSPI carries out world-class research in social policy and interventions.  

Our research work spans the Global North and South, and addresses problems faced by individuals in low- and middle-income countries, as well as high-income countries such as the UK. We apply innovative methods with the aim of providing practitioners and policy makers with evidence-informed solutions to real-world challenges. 

Our work is focused around six key themes: 

 White-line illustration of a clenched fist held upwards

Poverty & social inequalities

White-line illustration of two hands with fingers positioned to form a heart shape

Welfare states, gender & care

White-line illustration of a person holding out their hand in the 'stop' signal

Violence prevention

White-line illustration of a person holding a child on their back

Child & family welfare

White-line illustration of a hand holding a globe

Political economy

White-line illustration of a doctor holding a clipboard

Health inequalities & social policy

DSPI students walking along the pavement near Barnett House

Our 2025 Research Strategy

Find out more about how we aim to promote research excellence and collaboration within our department.