Exploring Money, Finance and the Cost of Living

The event forms part of the UK-wide Festival of Social Science, which runs from 17 October to 7 November 2026.
Now in its 26^th year, the Festival of Social Science celebrates social science research through a programme of engaging public events across the UK. This year's theme is ‘Money, Finance and the Cost of Living’.

Newcastle University Commercialisation and Partnerships Officer, Newcastle University, Jo Singh said: 

"This year’s theme will resonate with so many. As the cost of living continues to rise, and everyday households see a pinch in their finances, people seek more information on personal finances, business and the economy.

"The Festival of Social Sciences is a brilliant way for researchers to bring topics like this into public discussion, as well as being able to offer tools and ideas to improve daily finances."

Real world issues

Newcastle and Northumbria University researchers, alongside community organisations, will be at The Grainger Market from 11am – 3pm on Thursday 22 October.  This will be an exciting and informative day of free, interactive activities showcasing how social science helps us understand and address real-world issues.

Visitors can explore oral histories, view visual exhibits, and take part in thought provoking challenges that bring social science research to life. For example:

• Step into a Roman Market, use Roman maths and uncover how markets worked 2,000 years ago.
• Get hands-on with composting and discover how food waste can create value for communities.
• Take on the role of the NHS Budget Holder and attempt to balance a £100 million NHS budget, making difficult decisions about healthcare priorities.
• Get active by exploring games and tools to help families stay active and healthy at no cost.

Festival goers can also get practical advice and support on money, wellbeing and more from Citizens Advice, Moneywise and other local organisations. All activities at the Festival of Social Science are free. Visitors do not need to register for the Grainger Market event and will be able to just drop in on the day.

Professor Alex Hughes, Dean of Research and Innovation, Newcastle University said:

"At Newcastle University we want our research to have societal impact. That is why events like this are so valuable. Connecting to a public audience is a great way to understand what really matters to people, how we can engage with what we hear, and how we can make a real difference in the world through the work we do."

Claire Hutchinson, Public and Community Engagement Officer, Northumbria University, added:

"We are delighted to be working with Newcastle University again to bring the ESRC Festival of Social Science to the Grainger Market. This is a brilliant opportunity for our researchers to meet people in the heart of the city and show how social science connects to the everyday decisions and pressures we all face, particularly around money and the cost of living. We hope lots of local families and shoppers will come along, ask questions and join in."

This year’s festival programme will also include a lively and insightful panel discussion on Tuesday 27 October, ‘Manchesterism’: What does it mean for the North East?’, bringing together voices from the North East, Manchester and central government, alongside leading academic perspectives.

All events are free and open to the public. To explore the full festival programme and register to attend an event as part of the wider programme, visit the Festival of Social Science website.

Stian Westlake, ESRC Executive Chair, said:

"I encourage everyone to explore the programme and take part. Whether you are curious about how the economy works, interested in the future of technology, or simply looking for a fresh perspective on the world around you, the festival is an opportunity to engage with the ideas and evidence that will help shape our future."

The Festival of Social Science is led and funded by the UKRI Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), which supports research and training in social science subjects.