Sociology in Action

Sociology in Action: linking research, students and the community. This ethos puts the community at the heart of our work.

Our research

We investigate causes and effects of inequality, how to improve services and policy, and how people experience changes in our communities and culture.  Our researchers work with policymakers and practitioners in health and social care, security, and welfare to understand the key influences on their work and their effects on organisations, communities and service users.

Our students

Our students are engaged with our research from their first year. They consider contemporary social issues affecting people in Leeds; learning about research methods, data handling and how to make findings count.

Through Sociology in Action, we created ‘Beyond the University’, a module for undergraduates that sees second year students creating working partnerships with, and undertaking research for, local organisations. 

The module helps you to come out of your comfort zone and do things that you once might have feared. It wasn’t about sitting in a classroom - you learn you have to develop your organisational skills. This module has been invaluable for my future as I now know I would really like to work in the third sector.

Our students continue to work in collaboration with Leeds City Council on the Urban Impact Programme and their research has made a positive contribution to the Council’s work on a number of aspects relating to childhood poverty.

In addition our students work alongside a number of third sector organisations within the City, including CATCH, Your Backyard and Leeds Accommodation Gateway. 

These opportunities involve working closely with local organisations, often physically in the community. Unfortunately because of the COVID-19 pandemic we’re currently unable to offer this module, as the health and safety of our student volunteers, as well as people in our local community, is our priority.

Our community

Our aim is to build an active and mutually beneficial community of local organisations, students and academics who will work together to encourage positive social change. Drawing on the combined expertise, enthusiasm and knowledge of all its partners, Sociology in Action continues to develop and deliver projects that make a positive contribution to all our lives.