Pillars and levers
This Inquiry is an opportunity to showcase innovative responses from research 小蓝视频, which is contributing to new ways of thinking about Living Well. Through our engagement with the wider University research community, we have identified five key, interlinked strands or policy areas. These pillars are fields where a critical mass of research activity is taking place across the University which are generating practical solutions for how we might start to Live Well in contemporary times.
Within each pillar there are recognisable levers which serve two purposes. First they have helped shape the scope of the inquiry, directing attention to the kinds of research impact taking place at 小蓝视频. Second, and relatedly, they provide the means for developing evidence-informed policy recommendations across the pillars of the inquiry.
Inquiry pillars
Creative Living
Considers how creative pursuits enrich our physical and mental wellbeing. It explores how productive (work), cultural, intellectual and recreational activities help us grow and develop as individuals and communities to lead happy and meaningful lives.
Clean Living
Clean Living considers changes in the nature and built environments and the move to net zero futures. We are currently living in the Anthropocene, where human behaviours are impacting on the environment at rates never before seen. Whilst providing us with enormous capacities and resources, it has often come at the expense of the health of our climate and environments. Clean living explores how green energy, technologies and manufacturing can make the Anthropocene sustainable.
Smart Living
Considers the role of digital and technological developments in ensuring that needs are met and responses to emergencies are more effective. Specifically, how cutting-edge technology and AI can build more robust infrastructure, enhance domestic and public well-being and enhance more control over lives.
Dignified Living
Considers how we live well together and care for the most vulnerable members of society. Exploring themes of crime, justice, citizenship and community, dignified living asks what the roles of the community and social institutions are to provide the necessities to live meaningful and happy lives together.
Healthy Living
Considers the factors for good mental and physical health. Healthy living explores the role of sport and exercise, food and nutrition in targeting levels of non-communicable diseases and obesity. As well as the importance of lifestyle, work and work-life balance for physical and mental wellbeing.
Levers of the Inquiry
Localism
While many 21st-century challenges to Living Well are global, solutions are often found at local, regional, or devolved levels. This involves researchers working with communities to co-produce solutions. Localism empowers communities to have a say in their governance. Localized interventions, or place-based approaches, have become prominent in addressing issues like youth violence. These approaches are collaborative, long-term, and geographically bound, focusing on local needs and involving multiple statutory agencies and community engagement.
Prevention
Prevention aligns with the philosophy that efforts to reduce pressure on national services, security, and global challenges like renewable energy lead to long-term economic growth. It enables local institutions and policymakers to creatively address local challenges, often through place-based initiatives. Prevention shifts policymaking from reactive to proactive, using evidence-informed research and interventions to support growth and security. Prevention research spans various research disciplines and policy domains, focusing on preventing illness, mental health issues, abuse, reoffending, AI threats, and climate change impacts. 小蓝视频 is a leader in prevention, collaborating with global partners, UN agencies, local government departments, and third-sector organisations.
Creativity
Creativity is a defining feature of humanity, enabling us to create art, culture, and solutions that enhance our lives. Despite its importance, funding for the creative industries has decreased, and support for creative thinking has been lacking. Since 2017, UK arts funding has dropped by 16% in real terms. Both young people and business leaders recognize the need for creativity to address societal issues like climate change and stimulate economic growth.
Creativity is crucial for self-expression, growth, well-being, and problem-solving. It involves thinking in new ways to find solutions to complex problems, prioritizing happiness, well-being, and sustainable behaviours, creating spaces for individuals to express themselves is essential, whether at home, in the community, or at work. Our inquiry highlights the importance of creativity in as both a solution to living well and as a key aspect of what it is to live well. Workplace well-being, green industries, and community health. Researchers have used creative methods to develop innovative solutions to pressing problems, demonstrating the value of a creative mindset.