50th anniversary (1969-2019)
In 2019, we celebrate 50 years of shaping social change
Half a century ago, we were co-founded by Roger Jowell and Gerald Hoinville as Social and Community Planning Research (SCPR).
Roger and Gerald had a vision for an independent organisation to design, deliver and analyse in-depth studies within the field of social and public policy. By providing high quality research to policy makers, we could influence change and make life better for people. Today, that vision has become a reality and our work and influence are widespread, relating to all aspects of public life.
During 2019, we are celebrating by looking forward under the banner “50:50” - 100 Years of Social Research, Shaping Social Change” with:
- A series of 50th anniversary events, with lectures examining the unresolved challenges for our society;
- Blog posts, video, comment and analysis around the themes of the lectures.
We give a huge thank you to our funders, collaborators and fellow researchers. Together we can make a positive difference for our society.
We would love you to participate in our 50th celebrations. You can do that in various ways, including attending events or through supporting our organisation here.
Previous events
Unresolved public policy challenges: Three evidence-based perspectives - 27 February 2020 | British Academy
Progress and Popularity: Facing the Disillusioned in a New Decade - 16 January 2020 | Institute for Government
Shaping futures: Mental health and educational attainment in adolescents - 6 November 2019 | Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
British Social Attitudes 36 launch event - 11 July 2019 | House of Commons
Sir Roger Jowell Memorial Lecture 2019 - 13 June 2019 | City, University of London
50th Anniversary Drinks Reception - 30 April 2019 | House of Lords
Women in Social Science - 03 April 2019 | City, University of London
Brexit: What Britain Thinks - 26 March 2019 | House of Commons
Using data to inform suicide and self-harm prevention - 25 February 2019 | Royal Statistical Society
Latest content
NatCen 50th anniversary - feature report, April 2019
50 Years of Shaping Social Change - Guy Goodwin, January 2019
Latest article
NatCen's 50th Anniversary Speech - Guy Goodwin, April 2019