Features

In this extract from her new book, The Good Society: And How We Make it, Professor Kate Pickett argues that we already hold the blueprint for how to create fairer, healthier, and more prosperous societies and that it is time to make this vision a reality.

Our Annual Review highlights our commitment to quality and a shared purpose of public good. It showcases our award-winning researchers answering some of the world's most acute challenges, our new ambitious initiatives to expand our global presence, and our innovative teaching and educational successes.

Our Sustainability Plan sets out how we as an institution are responding to the urgent challenges of our time and contributing to a more sustainable world. Now at the mid-point of the Plan, we’re showcasing the significant progress made towards our goals and objectives.

Yvonne Birks is Professor of Applied Social Care Research in the School for Business and Society. As National Director for the NIHR School for Social Care Research (SSCR), she guides a national collaboration delivering high-quality social care research throughout England.

Built on the belief that ideas and education have the power to transform lives and positively impact communities, York Festival of Ideas is one of the largest free festivals of its kind in the UK. The 2025 theme of ‘Making Waves’ perfectly encapsulates the spirit of innovation and dynamism which typifies York.

Helen Cowie is Professor of Modern History in the Department of History at the University of York. Her research focuses on the history of animals, and in particular how human–animal relationships have evolved and changed through time.