Understanding Society is part of the national Festival of Social Science coordinated by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). In Sheffield the festival is organised in collaboration with Sheffield Hallam University. It celebrates social science research and examines how it influences our social, economic and political lives.

Sheffield’s world-leading social scientists will display their research on this issue and invite you to explore ideas for addressing it. There's something for all ages and interests, including exhibitions, interactive installations, demonstrations, games and crafting activities. These will cover topics such as supporting young people in the labour market, the history of workers rights, lived experiences of care and caring, future workplace technologies and the many benefits of green infrastructure.

Research Arcade

Friday 31 October - Sunday 2 November, 12pm - 4pm

Millennium Gallery, S1 2PP

Join researchers from the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University for a fun, interactive and family-friendly showcase featuring activity stands and exhibits that explore the ideas and issues that shape our everyday lives.

At the Research Arcade, you can play a giant board game about digital exclusion, help create Sheffield's 'Quilt of Welcome', learn about the global history of workers' rights, meet Robopeep the robotic sheepdog, find out how to improve the healthiness and sustainability of your diet, and get cozy in our graphic novel reading corner.

No booking required.

Children and Nuclear Anxiety

Monday 3 November - Sunday 9 November, 8am - 8pm

Sheffield Winter Gardens, S1 2LH

Explore young people's perspectives on nuclear war and its impact in this exhibition of artworks and poetry conveying their thoughts, fears and visions of the future. This year marks 80 years since the nuclear bombing of the Japanese cities Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

No booking required.

Striking Women

Monday 27 October - Sunday 2 November, 8am - 8pm

Sheffield Winter Gardens, S1 2LH

Learn about the fierce fight for workers' rights at this exhibition exploring the history of industrial action led by South Asian women in the UK - from the pivotal Grunwick strike of 1976 to the Gate Gourmet dispute in 2005.

No booking required.