Community cohesion and migration
CRESR has been at the forefront of research and analysis into community cohesion. This includes considering the predictors and drivers of cohesion, as well as the evaluation of policy and practice.
Our work focuses on:
- evaluation of policies, strategies and initiatives designed to manage and promote cohesion
- analysis of predictors and measurement of levels of cohesion
- community mapping and profiling
- understanding community relations
- generation of guidance for statutory agencies
We have helped lead efforts to explore and understand the experiences of different migrant populations and the local implications of and responses to migration. We evaluate managed migration programmes, including looking at local initiatives to support the settlement and integration of migrants.
Sheffield Strategic Housing Market Assessment
Project Director: Ryan Powell (CRESR) and Ed Ferrari (University of Sheffield)
Project Duration: 2013
This research represents a comprehensive assessment of the Sheffield housing market focusing on the housing needs of the City and its residents in terms of the demand and supply of suitable accommodation over the next five years. The research involved both quantitative and qualitative research techniques in quantifying housing need, capturing change in the local and sub-regional context and understanding the perspectives and needs of residents and stakeholders. Specific tasks included secondary data analysis, a survey of residents across the City and in-depth qualitative interviews with a sub-set of residents and key stakeholders.
Landmark Art and Community Resilience
Project Director: Aimee Ambrose
Project Duration: 2013
The use of 'landmark' sculptures as a means of commemorating and regenerating communities is an established practice. Anthony Gormley's 'Angel of the North' and Damien Hirst's 'Verity' are prominent examples. There are also many lesser known examples around the country. However, little is known about how they impact on their host communities. A key aim of the research was to compare the intended and actual impacts of a number of landmark sculpture projects in relation to a range of social, educational, physical and health variables in order to learn lessons for future projects of this nature, such as the Man of Steel- a large icon planned to commemorate traditional industries in the Sheffield City Region. The project brought together experts in materials science & engineering, education, inclusion, social work, planning and regeneration from around the University.
Switched on Communities: Collective Switching for a Brighter Future?
Project Director: Jan Gilbertson
Project Duration: 2013
Collective switching is a relatively new phenomenon in the UK. Community switching initiatives have the potential to enhance individual and community resilience by empowering consumers and communities to respond to increasing fuel bills through partnership for community action and possibly future sustainable behaviour. The aim of this project was to explore collective switching as an emerging community consumer movement.
Our Big Gig
Project Director: Professor Peter Wells
Project Duration: 2013-2014
Our Big Gig was a community music celebration which took place across the UK from the 11th to the 14th July 2013. This annual event aims to bring communities together to celebrate their local musical talents and get more people involved in music making.
All Our Big Gig events are organised by local volunteers on the ground in their communities with support from Superact’s Regional Managers. All events were at least four hours long, free to attend and open to all, providing attendees with opportunities to participate in a range of musical activities.
HMDT Impact Study
Project Director: Sarah Pearson
Project Duration: 2013-2015
Evaluation of the impacts of Holocaust Memorial Day, an annual commemoration of genocide atrocities that have taken place across the world. The aim was to uncover impacts of activities on what people know, feel and do with regard to previous atrocities and their future behaviour in relation to discrimination. The project involved longitudinal organiser and participant surveys, in-depth interviews with participants and stakeholders, and focus groups with participants.
Staff undertaking research include
Professor Ed Ferrari Aimee Ambrose Jan Gilbertson Dr Kesia Reeve
Get in touch
For further information please contact Dr Kesia Reeve at k.reeve@shu.ac.uk or call 0114 225 4519
Key clients
Arts and Humanities Research Council
Department for Work and Pensions
Glasgow Housing Assocation
Holocaust Memorial Day Trust
Home Office
Joseph Rowntree Foundation
North Lincolnshire Council
Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council
UK Border Agency