Economic & Social Research Council

'We are the UK's largest organisation for funding research on economic and social issues. We support independent, high quality research which has an impact on business, the public sector and civil society ... Social science research plays an important role in our society. Public engagement is about raising awareness of the social sciences and encouraging involvement in both social and science-related research, which will translate into real benefits for society and individuals.' Public-facing activities include the annual UK-wide Festival of Social Science.