A new report by the Academy of Social Sciences, in partnership with eight Midlands-based universities, including the University of Nottingham, showcases the positive impact of social science research taking place in the Midlands region, for the benefit of the Midlands region and its communities.
This report comes at a time when social, economic, health, place-based, and skills and education issues are among the most pressing in regions across the UK, and when regional development is at the heart of UK Government policy. It exemplifies the economic, social and civic roles of Midlands universities, and in particular that of their social science faculties, as powerhouses of ideas, research, innovation and leadership that seek to understand and help to address some of the most pressing challenges in their region.
‘Social sciences in the region, for the region: the Midlands’ highlights nine examples in which deeply applied and solutions-focused social science research is using innovative, collaborative and multi-disciplinary ways to bring substantial regional benefits at scale. The examples – selected by the universities – also highlight the vital role of universities in partnering with other higher education institutions, regional government, business and communities to stimulate and capitalise on opportunities for growth while responding to long standing challenges around economic growth and productivity, and on health, wellbeing and inclusivity of workers within the region.
The School of Economics at the University of Nottingham contribution focused on the ESRC-funded TrackTheEconomy dashboard, developed by Professor John Gathergood and colleagues during the Covid-19 pandemic. The dashboard showed economics and social activity in real time, enabling local, regional and national policymakers to use data-led insights to inform better decision-making and help drive growth across the country, both during and after the Covid-19 pandemic.
More information on the report is available here:
Posted on Wednesday 17th September 2025