Government Social Research
Social research is scientific enquiry which measures, describes, explains and predicts changes in social and economic structures, attitudes values and behaviours and the factors which motivate and constrain individuals and groups in society.
In government, this relates to policy development, implementation and delivery and to the estimation of policy impacts and outcomes. Good quality social research helps government to make better policies and deliver better services.
Government social researchers collect data (using the methods of social research such as social surveys, focus groups, in-depth interviews and case studies). They also analyse and interpret data and feed it into the policy process. They have a close relationship with other professional government analysts including economists, statisticians, operational researchers and scientists, as well as colleagues working on policy and delivery. Team working is essential in the provision of high quality research data.
Social research informs the development, implementation and evaluation of a wide range of government policies. Government social research plays a crucial role in evidence-based policy making today and becoming a social researcher offers an exciting opportunity to work at the heart of government.
Members of the Government Social Research service (GSR) are based in 20 government departments. The service is led by the Chief Government Social Scientist, Paul Wiles, who is supported by the Government Social Research Unit - GSRU. The team works in partnership with several cross-government committees of social researchers.