WIREDGOV

The impacts of social science research over the last fifty years are celebrated in the new issue of the Economic and Social Research Council's (ESRC) flagship magazine, Britain in 2015.

Covering key issues such as falling real-term wages, the future of fracking, and the challenges of dementia in an ageing population, the magazine features 132 pages full of topical insight, informed by the latest research and accompanied with opinion pieces from leading academic experts.

A special retrospective feature also looks at the history of the ESRC, from its founding as the Social Science Research Council in 1965 and its 1984 re-launch as the Economic and Social Research Council. The feature signals the start of a year of celebrations, as the ESRC celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2015 with a number of events highlighting the crucial difference social science research has made over five decades of change in society.

Chief Executive of the ESRC, Professor Jane Elliott, said: "Britain in 2015 reveals what a difference social science research has made to our lives over the last fifty years, and the ways in which researchers are tackling the key questions facing society today. As ESRC celebrates its fiftieth year of funding such crucial research, it's a fantastic opportunity to recognise the importance of such evidence to shape our understanding in 2015 and beyond."

With articles covering issues highlighted as particular concerns by researchers, the magazine also features commentary on the big issues of 2015 from key public figures, including chef Heston Blumenthal (on obesity), MP Sadiq Khan (immigration), and explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes (Europe).

Essential reading for policymakers, politicians, public and the media, Britain in 2015 is on sale from 26 November.

ESRC Press Office

• Aaron Boardley 
  Email: aaron.boardley@esrc.ac.uk
  Telephone: 01793 413122
• Susie Watts 
  Email: susie.watts@esrc.ac.uk
  Telephone: 01793 413119

Notes for editors

1. Britain in 2015 available at WHSmith high street and travel stores, Marks and Spencer, Waitrose and Boots. Copies can also be ordered direct by emailing enquiries@azonelogistics.com
2. Further details about Britain In magazine, including free downloads of previous issues, are available.
3. The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) is the UK's largest funder of research on the social and economic questions facing us today. It supports the development and training of the UK’s future social scientists and also funds major studies that provide the infrastructure for research. ESRC-funded research informs policymakers and practitioners and helps make businesses, voluntary bodies and other organisations more effective. The ESRC also works collaboratively with six other UK research councils and Innovate UK to fund cross-disciplinary research and innovation addressing major societal challenges. The ESRC is an independent organisation, established by Royal Charter in 1965, and funded mainly by the Government. In 2015 it will celebrate its 50th anniversary.