http://www.esrc.ac.uk The latest features from ESRC available through RSS Tue, 18 Jun 2013 21:38:13 GMT http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/gJDFZwoopNI/long-hours-for-working-dadsbut-not-as-long-as-before.aspx Hard-working fathers in the UK are cutting their long hours, while mothers are working more, research by NatCen Social Research and the University of East Anglia suggests. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/26584/long-hours-for-working-dadsbut-not-as-long-as-before.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/_F6W5x09Jw8/privatised-rail-public-profit-or-public-loss.aspx The privatised rail system relies upon billions of pounds of hidden subsidies from the tax payer and has failed to bring in private investment, according to research from the ESRC Centre for Research on Socio-Cultural Change. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/26255/privatised-rail-public-profit-or-public-loss.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/GX1QQSm40tk/same-sex-partnerships-commitment-above-rights.aspx The House of Lords has voted in favour of legalising same-sex marriage. ESRC-funded research suggests that couples enter into civil partnership to express commitment to their relationship, rather than legal 'rights' and protections. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/26430/same-sex-partnerships-commitment-above-rights.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/coHur_t3c0w/rethinking-pensions.aspx Six in ten people over the age of 50 in the UK have not considered how they will finance their retirement years – and a third of people approaching retirement do not know how much income they will receive from their private pensions, according to research from the Institute for Fiscal Studies. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25952/rethinking-pensions.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/gSKsqw_Jxxo/a-better-life-with-dementia.aspx People with dementia can still make decisions in their everyday lives, and with support from partners can continue to do so as their condition advances, research from the ESRC suggests. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/26158/a-better-life-with-dementia.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/KqfQEAYTS6U/mapping-the-secret-flights-of-rendition.aspx The extent of 'rendition' – the controversial practice of transferring prisoners covertly between countries – can now be seen in a graphic way. The ESRC-funded Rendition Project has developed an interactive map displaying the secret flights, drawing on an extensive database. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/26160/mapping-the-secret-flights-of-rendition.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/kZNAqFKxgGs/finding-the-uks-biggest-job-creators.aspx One of the Enterprise Research Centre’s newly published White Papers concludes that both start-up companies and established businesses have rapid growth potential. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/26135/finding-the-uks-biggest-job-creators.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/YtXEIUiyq50/torture-by-any-other-name.aspx The category of 'torture' has been used by Western states to distinguish between the civilised and the uncivilised. The moral and political stakes are often simply too high for the British state to admit responsibility for such an act, according to research. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/26056/torture-by-any-other-name.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/t95UiGMQ3yE/trial-and-web-error-when-jury-members-go-online.aspx Almost a quarter of people on jury service are confused about rules on internet use during a trial, according to findings from the ESRC-funded UCL Jury Project. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/26130/trial-and-web-error-when-jury-members-go-online.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/ZYY6CYfMPkc/female-surgeons-cutting-the-gender-gap.aspx Despite more women than men studying at UK medical schools, women are far less likely than male colleagues to pursue a career in surgery. ESRC-funded researchers have partnered with RCS and surgical society Scalpel to encourage women to become surgeons. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/26032/female-surgeons-cutting-the-gender-gap.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/SGyz80ZZrnU/zimbabwe-land-reforms-myths-and-surprises.aspx A study supported by the ESRC and the Department for International Development presents some surprising results of the controversial Zimbabwean land reform - and challenges five particular myths. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25946/zimbabwe-land-reforms-myths-and-surprises.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/2_G-pcoNR9k/new-health-data-will-reveal-links-between-social-circumstances-and-health.aspx Building on waves 1 and 2 of the main Understanding Society survey, the first release of health assessment data is now available. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25938/new-health-data-will-reveal-links-between-social-circumstances-and-health.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/-KglkAWizsg/teaching-complex-language-through-storytelling.aspx A pioneering ESRC study by linguistics researchers has shown that 'story time' in primary schools can be used as a subtle way to introduce complex language structures to young children. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25785/teaching-complex-language-through-storytelling.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/qAfQrsw4Xn8/misjudging-the-risk-of-extreme-events.aspx Both insurance buyers and insurance sellers frequently fail to assess risks accurately, according to new research. An ESRC-supported report concludes that when people make assessments about rare events, they often tend to misjudge a number of factors. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25835/misjudging-the-risk-of-extreme-events.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/gPEHuIW2mUE/new-online-tool-for-language-researchers.aspx The new Instruments for Research into Second Language Learning (IRIS) database allows any language researcher to upload and download materials free of charge. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25780/new-online-tool-for-language-researchers.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/pmoZpzPbDwI/european-survey-shows-work-and-wellbeing-impact-from-recession.aspx More pressure at work, increased job insecurity and less trust in political institutions are some of the impacts of the recession, according to a new report from the European Social Survey. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25778/european-survey-shows-work-and-wellbeing-impact-from-recession.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/esuXnjzwZ2Y/feeling-the-pain-of-others.aspx New research has established a definite link between the physical condition synaesthesia and the capacity for feeling empathy. Brain scans show that the 'social brain' not directly affected by test stimuli is being activated. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25765/feeling-the-pain-of-others.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/wojxcKGDWXs/global-summit-for-retail-and-researchers.aspx The ACS Global Summit, supported by the ESRC, has provided the opportunity to encourage debate and knowledge exchange between leading practitioners and social scientists within the retail sector. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25753/global-summit-for-retail-and-researchers.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/_TNgmh0SbYM/researchers-team-up-with-google-to-explore-data.aspx The Google Data Analytics Social Science Research initiative will explore how publicly accessible online data, analytical and presentational tools can answer pressing social science questions. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25707/researchers-team-up-with-google-to-explore-data.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/TJisEh3nqBo/muslim-communities-successfully-integrating.aspx Muslim ethnic minority communities have been integrating into British and German cities for some time, according to research presented at the NORFACE Migration Conference at University College London this week. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25703/muslim-communities-successfully-integrating.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/EJZr_UBp_Rw/the-economic-legacy-of-mrs-thatcher.aspx Nicholas Crafts, Professor of Economics and Economic History at the University of Warwick and Director of the ESRC Centre for Competitive Advantage in the Global Economy, examines how the economic policies of the Thatcher era affected the UK economy. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25691/the-economic-legacy-of-mrs-thatcher.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/4iDqGSkgZ68/healthier-living-cardiff-or-bangladesh.aspx A comparison of Bangladeshi women living in Cardiff and in Bangladesh shows poorer health among those living in Cardiff, with considerably more obesity. A less active lifestyle and a more unhealthy diet are the main reasons. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25649/healthier-living-cardiff-or-bangladesh.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/V_z40jZUBws/cities-sap-our-powers-of-concentration.aspx New ESRC- funded research shows that if you live in an isolated rural area you are likely to concentrate better than if you live in a city. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25501/cities-sap-our-powers-of-concentration.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/zESlfTWX1bU/safe-food-in-a-global-system.aspx The challenges of food security, global food systems and our dependence on food imports is explored in a new report based on an ESRC Public Policy Seminar. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25467/safe-food-in-a-global-system.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/Pre8Bi3dwUk/budget-2013-ifs-analysis.aspx Following the Chancellor’s presentation of the 2013 Budget yesterday, the ESRC-supported Institute for Fiscal Studies has produced an analysis of key Budget features. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25462/budget-2013-ifs-analysis.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/FIBlc34EO00/scottish-attitudes-to-devo-max.aspx A report from ScotCen Social Research and the Electoral Reform Society used data from the ESRC-supported Scottish Social Attitudes Survey to find out ordinary citizens' attitudes to further devolution. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25428/scottish-attitudes-to-devo-max.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/sflLIdF5gEk/the-demographic-push-to-democracy.aspx When life spans increase, people become more concerned with their rights, pushing societies towards democracy, argues Tim Dyson of the London School of Economics. While this demographic transition has taken 200 years in Europe, China might be through this change by 2030. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25396/the-demographic-push-to-democracy.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/LxXCzM_9fGo/future-nhs-funding-squeeze-highlighted-by-ifs-research.aspx A House of Lords inquiry examining the pressures facing the health service drew heavily on research evidence from the ESRC-supported Institute for Fiscal Studies. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25376/future-nhs-funding-squeeze-highlighted-by-ifs-research.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/L9xcZAHNlVI/health-of-mummies-revealed-by-digging-into-data.aspx New research on mummies challenges the conventional belief that fatty arteries are caused by unhealthy lifestyles. The study came about through the Digging into Data Challenge, a research initiative co-funded by the ESRC. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25367/health-of-mummies-revealed-by-digging-into-data.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/L5qTnmk1OAo/our-nuanced-attitude-to-war.aspx In the first major survey of foreign policy attitudes in Britain, researchers have found that most people did not simply support or oppose the use of force on principle, but instead made a judgment based on various aspects of the situation. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25307/our-nuanced-attitude-to-war.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/uLImysjZScA/the-soft-power-of-international-aid.aspx The austerity cuts in public spending have brought pressure on protected areas such as international aid. But the UK aid programme is a definite source of 'soft power' for Britain, argues Professor Paul Collier in a Britain in 2013 article. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25320/the-soft-power-of-international-aid.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/pcgaNFQMMEU/fuelling-growth-with-public-investments.aspx Professor David Newberry argues that public investment in the right areas will fuel UK economic growth - with the short-term impact of giving work to domestic private companies who will create jobs. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25301/fuelling-growth-with-public-investments.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/j7jwyfsDsb4/working-or-shirking-home-working-and-staff-performance.aspx An evaluation of home-working showed a dramatic increase in employee performance and reduction in staff turnover, according to findings from a team including Professor Nicholas Bloom from ESRC's Centre for Economic Performance. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25268/working-or-shirking-home-working-and-staff-performance.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/QktZb8ShILE/trust-meim-a-politician.aspx Politicians will find it hard to persuade voters to trust them more because there's a big gap between the kinds of behaviour the two camps think of as unethical, according to new research. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25272/trust-meim-a-politician.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/7W2EwHVtEnY/climate-change-downgrade-in-the-recession.aspx As we enter Climate Week, poll results have revealed that public concern about environmental issues and climate change has sunk to a 20-year low since the beginning of the global financial crisis. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25240/climate-change-downgrade-in-the-recession.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/f2w661kHdB8/making-the-right-noises-the-language-of-female-executives.aspx Linguistic studies show that women in senior management think hard about what they say and how they say it. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25227/making-the-right-noises-the-language-of-female-executives.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/U01vrR4_Xhg/still-ship-pollution-in-regulated-zones.aspx Regulations controlling air pollution from ships might be ineffective, suggests ESRC-funded research. A minority of berthing ships in the UK and Sweden are burning high-sulphur fuel in restricted control areas. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25210/still-ship-pollution-in-regulated-zones.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/Fx7TWWT3Ihs/more-drugs-dispensed-in-care-homes.aspx The dispensing of mood-altering drugs to older people in Northern Ireland increase after they move into care homes, according to research at the Centre of Excellence for Public Health Northern Ireland, co-funded by the ESRC. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25149/more-drugs-dispensed-in-care-homes.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/ceO7WU1tsRs/scotlands-welfare-challenge.aspx Whether independent or devolved from the UK, Scotland is set to gain more control over welfare spending – but politicians have not engaged with the challenging issues of welfare spending in the future, warns Professor David Bell, a Future of the UK and Scotland Fellow. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25110/scotlands-welfare-challenge.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/_8J6mf69PGg/more-job-satisfaction-despite-recession.aspx The recession has had a profound impact on Britain's workplaces - but findings from the Workplace Employment Relations Study show that parts of working life have actually improved since the survey was last conducted in 2004. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25062/more-job-satisfaction-despite-recession.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/BgmymWwk6Hc/all-work-and-low-pay-in-recession.aspx The sixth Workplace Employment Relations Study, co-funded by the ESRC, reveals that the tough economic climate has led to pronounced increases in workload and working hours for many employees in Britain. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25054/all-work-and-low-pay-in-recession.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/96lkeB0DA9k/ifs-green-budget-spending-cuts-now-or-tax-rises-later.aspx More government borrowing and public sector job cuts, as tax rises are on the horizon, warns the IFS Green Budget. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/25010/ifs-green-budget-spending-cuts-now-or-tax-rises-later.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/0xBcSNCnCpk/staying-safe-online.aspx The Visualisation and Other Methods of Expression (VOME) project developed new methods to raise public awareness about internet security, an issue highlighted with today's celebration of Safer Internet Day. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24987/staying-safe-online.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/t9JELP_ZFcw/uk-employees-are-less-productivebut-not-in-the-public-sector.aspx While employment levels in the UK have been "remarkably robust" since 2008, productivity has slumped, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies paper The productivity puzzles. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24989/uk-employees-are-less-productivebut-not-in-the-public-sector.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/K6r07qIFDis/exploring-the-web-business-revolution.aspx The new Centre for Creativity, Regulation, Enterprise and Technology (CREATe), part-funded by the ESRC, has been launched to examine the need for new business models and the changing nature of copyright in a web-based business environment. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24966/exploring-the-web-business-revolution.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/qi4vkzyJXnI/invest-in-skills-infrastructure-and-innovation-says-growth-commission.aspx Investing in human capital, improving the national infrastructure, improving finance provision for private investment and innovation, and the creation of an independent National Growth Council are key recommendations in the final report from the LSE Growth Commission. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24938/invest-in-skills-infrastructure-and-innovation-says-growth-commission.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/ap5mq31jLCU/when-flooding-woke-the-nation.aspx Sixty years ago, over 300 people died, 24,000 people were evacuated and 32,000 houses were damaged in the 1953 East Coast flood. The early history of the early warning system and how it was funded has been explored in an ESRC-funded research project. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24945/when-flooding-woke-the-nation.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/Jhgx3FtuTaM/second-wave-of-data-from-large-scale-survey.aspx The second full set of data from the Understanding Society survey has been released, marking a milestone in the extensive longitudinal research project covering 30,500 households. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24873/second-wave-of-data-from-large-scale-survey.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/kWvHiizoijs/getting-pig-meat-to-the-market.aspx The current model for supplying pig meat to UK consumers is ineffective and beset by a 'trader mentality' from leading supermarkets, and would benefit from more integrated ownership where companies have a vested interest throughout the supply chain, concludes a report from the ESRC-funded Centre for Research on Socio-Cultural Change. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24848/getting-pig-meat-to-the-market.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/-0DvD7eU_hI/protecting-people-against-animal-disease.aspx Fieldwork is beginning in a unique study which puts social scientists at the heart of disease prevention. The ESRC-funded Dynamic Drivers of Disease in Africa Consortium will study 'zoonotic' diseases – those which can be transmitted to humans from wild animals and livestock. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24853/protecting-people-against-animal-disease.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/vwArTp5vTeM/study-hard-aim-high-for-working-class-british-asians.aspx A recent ESRC study found that many working-class ethnic minority families are inspiring their children to be high educational achievers – even if the parents have had very little education themselves. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24588/study-hard-aim-high-for-working-class-british-asians.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/piHbufjdaU0/leaving-trading-to-the-computers.aspx Over one third of UK equity trading volume being generated through high-speed computer-automated trading, with little to no human involvement. The issue and Foresight report is being highlighted in an event hosted by the ESRC-funded Systemic Risk Centre today - 'The Future of Computer Trading in Financial Markets'. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24684/leaving-trading-to-the-computers.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/H1KGezG63Vo/more-giving-with-more-income.aspx The amount that people give to charity is highly dependent on income, according to ESRC-supported research. Results from a game study suggests that donor level of income is vital in determining charitable donations. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24552/more-giving-with-more-income.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/33EE8P8ufKY/how-additive-manufacturing-can-boost-the-uk-economy.aspx Additive manufacturing, or '3D printing', is set to change the face of manufacturing. The Technology Strategy Board is launching a new £7 million research competition in partnership with the ESRC, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, and the Arts and Humanities Research Council. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24501/how-additive-manufacturing-can-boost-the-uk-economy.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/lRHljw04GcY/more-than-eight-million-adults-without-basic-maths-skills.aspx In some areas of England, one in four adults has the maths skills of a seven to nine-year-old or below, according to new Skills for Life survey figures. The Targeted Initiative on Science and Mathematics Education, part-funded by ESRC, aims to boost engagement and understanding of maths and science for children and young people. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24494/more-than-eight-million-adults-without-basic-maths-skills.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/24K5rurKaS4/financial-skills-key-for-female-executives.aspx Having a financial background can greatly enhance the career prospects of women in business - helping them to converse in the 'language of business' and prove their credibility, according to a new study. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23898/financial-skills-key-for-female-executives.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/A0iM07LOiHs/researching-risk-in-financial-organisations.aspx Research looking at how banks and other financial firms have begun to address the problems of risk culture has found that change is underway, with new programmes and experiments in risk management. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24364/researching-risk-in-financial-organisations.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/wfxgXuQjb6g/massive-pensions-shortfall-looming-for-unaware-over-50s.aspx A report launched today by the Institute for Fiscal Studies and co-funded by the ESRC reveals that a third of those approaching retirement report that they find it impossible even to guess how much income they will receive from their private pensions. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24310/massive-pensions-shortfall-looming-for-unaware-over-50s.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/x-DMHnEZIZA/calling-time-on-binge-drinking.aspx The Home Office has launched a consultation on measures to reduce alcohol consumption. But what are the most effective interventions? ESRC-funded researchers have explored the motivations and measures connected to binge drinking. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24283/calling-time-on-binge-drinking.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/fRJd4R08YQc/esrc-researchers-winning-ktp-awards.aspx ESRC's winning KTP partnership, with KTP Associate Harriet Knowles, was among the eight finalist Best Partnership teams at today's KTP Awards 2012 event. KTP Associates Kate Jones and Katie Flaherty both received a Business Leader of Tomorrow award. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/24174/esrc-researchers-winning-ktp-awards.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/mrHqIqsBaRk/us-presidential-election-the-issues-at-stake.aspx As the US presidential election day has arrived, the ESRC Centre for Economic Performance (CEP)'s series of US election analyses offers insights into key election issues. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23712/us-presidential-election-the-issues-at-stake.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/FvGD_8QOGW0/after-the-storm-dealing-with-natural-disasters.aspx Communities hit by natural disasters are faced with a major challenge when it comes to recovering, but experiences from previous events can help us find the most effective response. ESRC-funded research explores issues such as community resilience, response to disasters, risk assessment and preparedness for natural hazards. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23892/after-the-storm-dealing-with-natural-disasters.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/KgwiBNiBdxI/using-research-for-a-competitive-economy.aspx The Heseltine review which is published today looks at ways of making the UK economy more competitive, including how research can boost business. ESRC-funded research has explored to what degree companies collaborate with university departments. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23572/using-research-for-a-competitive-economy.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/e7fcW3yiovU/where-was-i-the-business-cost-of-interruptions.aspx Interruptions are a common phenomenon in the workplace, with office workers frequently distracted by the conversations of their chatty neighbours. New ESRC-funded research has found that being interrupted whilst reading caused on average a 17 per cent increase in reading time. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23734/where-was-i-the-business-cost-of-interruptions.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/yd48hTnPtj0/exam-nerves-can-boost-gradesbut-only-for-those-with-good-memory.aspx ESRC-funded research shows that feeling anxious can improve the exam result – if the candidate has a good working memory. For candidates with poor memory, however, exam anxiety can have a negative effect. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23641/exam-nerves-can-boost-gradesbut-only-for-those-with-good-memory.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/nPQU5la6pOM/the-changing-minds-of-young-footballers.aspx ESRC-funded research has found that young football players can be at different stages of mental development, affecting their decision-making - with implications for football coaching methods. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23578/the-changing-minds-of-young-footballers.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/jVx9SoKIO0s/happy-relationships-may-help-you-keep-fit.aspx Stable, nurturing relationships may help you stay fit and healthy, according to new ESRC-funded research. The study found that being in supportive relationships with low levels of conflicts and stress may help some individuals keep slim and physically active. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23560/happy-relationships-may-help-you-keep-fit.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/4iqD1bwwQe8/making-cities-pedestrian-friendly.aspx The PARC study, funded through the ESRC-supported National Prevention Research Initiative, has analysed the effect and 'walkability' of pedestrian-friendly spaces in East Belfast. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23294/making-cities-pedestrian-friendly.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/j1JXx95wGVQ/the-life-of-a-servant-less-downton-more-downtrodden.aspx Servant lives a century ago consisted of backbreaking work, long hours, low pay and often complete segregation from their superiors, says Dr Pamela Cox, Director of the ESRC Doctoral Training Centre at Essex University and presenter of a new BBC series. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23481/the-life-of-a-servant-less-downton-more-downtrodden.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/_T7ST-w9Z18/tracing-the-lives-of-missing-persons.aspx A new ESRC-funded project chronicles the stories of those who choose to disappear and become a missing person. The findings will be used to train police, inform government policy and design services to support those who disappear and their families. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23412/tracing-the-lives-of-missing-persons.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/Lp7vW4IPRds/attitudes-towards-immigration-hardening-but-nuanced.aspx A new survey shows that Brits have become less tolerant of immigration in general, but discerning between types of immigrants - corroborating findings from ESRC-funded research on public attitudes. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23326/attitudes-towards-immigration-hardening-but-nuanced.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/9k1kXpEekRE/pioneering-computer-model-measures-health-impact-of-green-transport.aspx The Integrated Transport and Health Impact Model, developed at the ESRC-supported Centre for Diet and Activity Research, enables transport planners to predict how different patterns of transport use impact on health. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23278/pioneering-computer-model-measures-health-impact-of-green-transport.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/luLSBTUbBqE/too-much-money-reduces-life-satisfaction.aspx Research from the Centre for Competitive Advantage in the Global Economy shows that life satisfaction actually is reduced when a country's Gross Domestic Product increases beyond a certain level. The optimal economic level for life satisfaction lies between $26,000 and $30,000 of GDP per person. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/23180/too-much-money-reduces-life-satisfaction.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/-_eg9CxotcI/football-making-the-pitch-greener.aspx With a new football season coming up, environmental concerns may not be the first thing fans will be thinking of. But research shows how social responsibility and green practices might be the next big goal for football clubs. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/22544/football-making-the-pitch-greener.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/LhHJLXq6oJU/researching-service-design-for-a-better-customer-experience.aspx The emerging field of 'service design' can be crucial in order to attract customers and business. The ESRC is partnering up with the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), the Design Council and the communications consultancy Madano Partnership to fund research exploring the value and impact of service design. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/22826/researching-service-design-for-a-better-customer-experience.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/hvUopYPtrHs/mortgage-struggles-less-bad-than-predicted.aspx A new Government report on mortgage arrears and repossessions, building on research from the ESRC-supported Spatial Economics Research Centre, suggests that the outlook for the next three years is less bleak than predicted. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/22665/mortgage-struggles-less-bad-than-predicted.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/LU50b0saPHI/putting-toilets-on-the-map-with-open-data.aspx The Great British Public Toilet Map has been developed as part of an ESRC-funded research project Tackling Ageing Continence through Theory Tools and Technology (TACT3), automatically tracking councils' open data on public toilet facilities and displaying the information online. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/21975/putting-toilets-on-the-map-with-open-data.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/MpBeriDnooc/religion-and-society-debate-with-rowan-williams-and-tony-blair.aspx The Westminster Faith debates, organised by the AHRC/ESRC Religion and Society Programme, concluded with a debate between former Prime Minister Tony Blair, the Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, and the former Daily Telegraph editor Charles Moore. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/22307/religion-and-society-debate-with-rowan-williams-and-tony-blair.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/i_1ACbyAfrY/trusting-our-data-to-online-services.aspx The Visualisation and Other Methods of Expression project, part of the ESRC-supported Ensuring Privacy and Consent programme, has designed a set of design principles to help online service providers respond to the privacy, consent and information needs of web users. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/22279/trusting-our-data-to-online-services.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/QA9hp1-Wh38/bottling-it-up-or-talking-it-over.aspx 'Women talk, men bottle things up' is a popular stereotype. But it's not simply a gender divide; age, generation and class are also important in how we deal with emotional issues, according to recent research. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/22230/bottling-it-up-or-talking-it-over.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/Y7WB_BOkJXo/managing-the-olympic-crowds.aspx Understanding how crowds behave is crucial for safety and security at big events. The Crowd Behaviour Network, part of an ESRC-funded research project, provides timely insights into crowd management in the run-up to the London 2012 Olympic Games. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/22188/managing-the-olympic-crowds.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/m3b2a_3Gf_g/population-56-millionand-counting.aspx The newly published figures from the 2011 census show that the population of England and Wales increased with 7 per cent – 3.7 million – over the last decade. This is the largest jump in population figures since the first census in 1801. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/22175/population-56-millionand-counting.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/pWz0juZg3Jc/the-art-of-fundraising.aspx Despite much focus on how people donate to charitable causes, there has been much less research on fundraisers and how their personal skills affect the performance. The research project 'The Formation of Fundraisers: the role of personal skills in asking for money' will interview fundraisers and volunteers who have raised significant sums to explore what makes a successful 'asker'. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/21974/the-art-of-fundraising.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/ecr7vFtKxTg/the-future-of-social-care.aspx The Government's White Paper on care and support, published Wednesday, presents a number of 'key actions' to meet care needs for the elderly over the next decade. The ESRC-supported Institute for Fiscal Studies has examined different scenarios for the funding of social care in the future. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/22067/the-future-of-social-care.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/aWuATORm69k/libyas-unofficial-army.aspx Revolutionary fighters from the Libyan uprising are distrustful of the National Army leadership, and have established the National Shield, a national army-in-waiting, in order to safeguard the 'ideals of the revolution'. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/21880/libyas-unofficial-army.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/udoGSWD4OYI/improving-services-for-the-homeless.aspx Many homeless people with complex needs do not receive the support they need from agencies, a recently completed research project suggests. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/21364/improving-services-for-the-homeless.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/tnP_iP8ftvA/understanding-how-stress-triggers-bipolar-mood-swings.aspx Financial problems, marital difficulties, job loss and personal illness can trigger episodes of bipolar depression and mania, according to new research findings. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/21210/understanding-how-stress-triggers-bipolar-mood-swings.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/PBUnf0q1jXk/one-in-four-children-face-development-risks.aspx More than a quarter of young people are growing up in families that face multiple challenges - with potentially damaging effects on children's development. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/20381/one-in-four-children-face-development-risks.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/55901uKey_E/adult-apprenticeships-quality-or-quantity.aspx Thirty per cent of apprentices in England are over 45 years old, due to the practice of 'converting' existing employees into apprentices. But adult apprentices are more likely to be experiencing a 'restrictive' apprenticeship, with little access to learning new skills and gaining knowledge. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/21081/adult-apprenticeships-quality-or-quantity.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/O9HfpyOSYro/british-sign-languageon-the-record.aspx The British Sign Language Corpus Project has collected the first recorded 'corpus' of BSL and is expected to lead to improved services for deaf people. The project includes online video recordings of conversations, interviews, narratives, and signs for 102 key concepts. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/20149/british-sign-languageon-the-record.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/LpZnFO2Qi-8/social-mobility-report-draws-on-esrc-funded-research.aspx A new report by the all-party Parliamentary group on social mobility has identified seven 'key truths' about social mobility, drawing on ESRC-funded research. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/20792/social-mobility-report-draws-on-esrc-funded-research.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/gESTLrMhrlI/performing-under-pressure-esrc-research-in-bbc-test.aspx A BBC online test uses research from the ESRC-funded Emotion Regulation of Others and Self network to explore how people handle tasks under stress. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/20716/performing-under-pressure-esrc-research-in-bbc-test.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/3qLePi4kHc4/fear-makes-us-co-operate.aspx It may not be altruism, but fear that encourages co-operation, findings show. We are inclined to work together because we are worried about the consequences of selfishly taking advantage of other people. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/20627/fear-makes-us-co-operate.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/hoLgu0gGpVw/fracking-and-public-dialogue.aspx People remain negative about hydrocarbons and controversial 'fracking' extraction, and do not see shale gas or other forms of unconventional fossil fuel as the solution to either energy security or climate change. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/20493/fracking-and-public-dialogue.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/hOul0EXmHdY/how-to-spot-the-good-and-bad-of-gambling.aspx An economic stimulus or financial disaster? Building casinos provokes strong feelings and opinions, and ESRC-funded research is providing much–needed evidence on the pros and cons of gambling. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/20369/how-to-spot-the-good-and-bad-of-gambling.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/I6pB2jYIj_o/no-panic-for-petrol.aspx The queuing and bulk-buying of petrol is not 'panic buying' but logical, given people's reasonable beliefs about others' behaviour and mistrust of the authorities, argues Dr John Drury, researching crowd psychology in emergencies. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/20345/no-panic-for-petrol.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/MUbFP-pjBAc/nhs-healthy-competitionpart-1.aspx Professor Carol Propper of the ESRC Centre for Market and Public Organisation assesses the impact of competition between suppliers on the healthcare system http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/19967/nhs-healthy-competitionpart-1.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/z8K76ko-FWM/opinion-on-the-benefits-of-competition-in-healthcare.aspx Professor Carol Propper: Research evidence suggests that more competition and patient choice has the power to improve outcomes for patients. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/19969/opinion-on-the-benefits-of-competition-in-healthcare.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/Oe6SsPrLOaE/feeding-babies-on-demand-boosts-their-iq-later-in-life-research-suggests.aspx An ESRC-funded study investigating the long-term outcomes of babies being fed on schedule versus on demand has revealed that babies who are fed on demand perform academically better during childhood than their schedule-fed peers. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/20155/feeding-babies-on-demand-boosts-their-iq-later-in-life-research-suggests.aspx http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EsrcFeatures/~3/L8FvX-jvTaI/science-still-no-childs-play.aspx Young people show little interest in science careers, and many children rarely take part in science-related activities, according to findings. http://www.esrc.ac.uk/impacts-and-findings/features-casestudies/features/20129/science-still-no-childs-play.aspx