The Newcastle Institute for Social Renewal addresses the question: how can people, communities and societies thrive in times of rapid, transformational change?
This question resonates with many people, particularly in the current economic context. But the question is relevant to good times as well as more testing times, as we negotiate global economic change, technological transformations, fundamental social change, and persistent and growing inequalities in the UK and around the world. We seek to employ Newcastle University’s knowledge and expertise and work with others to help make a difference to people’s lives. To help us do this we have articulated a number of initial themes.
Social Renewal is a broad subject which is addressed by the work of many colleagues across the whole University. This breadth is a virtue. Nevertheless, the Institute has to focus its resources. We have therefore developed ten initial themes for focused action. Some of these overlap and all are inter-related. Work under each theme will be encouraged by a ‘Theme Champion’. These themes will evolve through time, to reflect new challenges and our own developing capacity and interests.