Research Community

RAND Europe is a not-for-profit research institute whose mission is to improve policy and decision-making through objective research. It combines the impartiality and academic rigour of a university with the client-oriented delivery approach of a consultancy. RAND Europe’s Defence and Security research group conducts research on a range of subjects, including those relating to Defence workforces and the wider Armed Forces Community. Examples of recent work undertaken by the Defence and Security group in this area include research examining the impact of the Armed Forces Covenant and multiple studies examining areas of potential disadvantage (e.g., employment, financial stability and social care) faced by members of the Armed Forces Community.

The Gambling Research, Education and Treatment (GREAT) Network Wales exists to drive research, education and treatment for all forms of gambling-related harm in individuals, families and communities. As a network for researchers, service providers, people with lived experience and policymakers, GREAT develops effective treatments for problematic or excessive gambling, educational and consultancy services for all sectors, produces high-quality, peer-reviewed impartial research, and serves as a clearinghouse for scientific and policy-based evidence regarding gambling and its related harms.

The Northern Hub for Veterans and Military Families Research are a multi-disciplinary team conducting integral translational research in the Armed Forces Community. The Northern Hub’s research profile is both qualitative and quantitative, covering health and social care, public health, psychology, social policy, human geography, and nursing. They consistently work to attract and facilitate collaboration across the Armed Forces sector, working with a variety of organisations across the Government, Local Authorities, NHS and Third Sector.

The Veterans & Families Institute for Military Social Research carries out research, policy development and consultation on the impact of military Service - improving the well-being of Veterans, Service personnel and their families. Their work falls into four key areas of research: Thriving Families, Transition Measurement and Service Improvement, Women and Equalities, and Narrative. They have a growing domestic and international profile and are involved in NATO research on military-to-civilian transition, and sexual violence, as well as collaborative work with international universities.