Social justice and equality
The Institute for Social Policy, Housing, Equalities Research, I-SPHERE, at Heriot-Watt University is a leading research centre dedicated to tackling some of society's most critical challenges, including homelessness, poverty, and social exclusion.
I-SPHERE’s mission is to use world-class research to drive meaningful change for individuals and communities affected by extreme disadvantage. With expertise in complex needs, housing exclusion, and destitution, the institute works closely with government bodies, charities, and international partners to shape policy and improve the lives of marginalised groups. Awarded the prestigious Queen’s Anniversary Prize in 2020, I-SPHERE is recognised as one of the UK’s top social and housing policy research centres, producing research that has global impact.
Heriot-Watt’s Institute for Social Policy, Housing, Equalities Research (I-SPHERE) is renowned for its interdisciplinary research on poverty, housing, and social inequality. By uniting experts across fields such as social policy, law, and public health, I-SPHERE creates impactful research that addresses the root causes of disadvantage.
The institute collaborates extensively with third-sector organisations, government bodies, and other research institutions, ensuring that its findings inform both policy and practice. I-SPHERE’s work is a key part of Heriot-Watt University’s broader mission to address global challenges through innovative and inclusive research initiatives.
Our research projects
We are among the UK’s top social and housing policy research centres. In 2020 we were awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education. In REF 2021, our research in the joint submission with the University of Edinburgh was ranked 1st in Scotland, and 4th in the UK, in the Times Higher Education research ‘power’ rankings.
Destitution in the UK
A comprehensive study into the scale and drivers of destitution in the UK, funded by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, informing policy to address extreme poverty.
Hard Edges: severe and multiple disadvantage
A series of research projects exploring the intersections between homelessness, substance misuse, and criminal justice, funded by Lankelly Chase Foundation, Robertson Trust, and Oak Foundation.
Homelessness and Black and Minoritised Ethnic Communities
A major knowledge and capacity-building programme aimed at addressing racial disparities in homelessness among Black and minoritised ethnic groups in the UK, supported by the Oak Foundation.
The Homelessness Monitor
Longitudinal analysis of homelessness across the UK, providing a comprehensive overview of trends, causes, and policy responses. This research is conducted in partnership with Crisis.
Fair Way Scotland
I-SPHERE are the independent evaluators of Fair Way Scotland, an innovative initiative designed to support people with complex needs through coordinated service delivery, focusing on those who are experiencing homelessness or severe disadvantage.
Read moreProfessor Suzanne Fitzpatrick, Director of I-SPHERE
" To have these horrifying levels of destitution in a country like ours is a political choice. The scale of extreme material hardship we have uncovered reflects the state abdicating its responsibility to ensure that all members of our society are able to meet their most basic physical needs... There must be immediate action from all levels of government to tackle this social emergency. "
Collaborate with us
At Heriot-Watt University, our enterprising research culture thrives on diversity, inclusivity, and collaboration. We foster an environment where every researcher feels valued and supported, driving key themes like Research Careers, Collegiality, Open Research, and Research Integrity. By celebrating efforts and promoting an inclusive community, we shape the future of research with purpose and impact.Professor Steve McLaughlin, Vice-Principal and Provost
Together, we shape the future.
Since 1821 we have been at the forefront of new ideas and solutions, creating radical innovations that make a difference in the real world. Heriot-Watt has an established reputation as a dynamic facilitator of successful strategic alliances. The University aims to solve problems of real significance to society by excelling in research and enterprise.
