New research, presented at a major international conference in London, demonstrates how inequality in education, skills and incomes reduces opportunity and undermines social cohesion. In education, for example, the social and ability mix of the school has a major impact on how well a child performs.

Progress towards teaching children to have positive attitudes towards disabled people has been slow and 'patchy', according to a new study funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).

A fascinating event looking at sign language research is to be held at University College London on 20 March as part of the Economic and Social Research Council's (ESRC) Festival of Social Science (21-21 March).

Staged on the Hebridean Isle of Lewis an event will see two school teams lock horns on the question 'Are people living in rural areas innovative?' in the Strathclyde University Innovation Debate. The event is part of the Economics and Social Research Council's (ESRC) Festival of Social Science (12-22 March).

A film created by secondary school children from Sheffield is giving them a chance to have their views heard on a topic close to their hearts: the design of their school. The film also offers practical recommendations on how to get children engaged in research findings.