The Institute of Applied Social Research (IASR) at the University of Bedfordshire is recognised for its expertise in:

• Evaluating strengths-based practice to improve social work practice (e.g. motivational interviewing and systemic practice)
• Research with children looked after and young people negotiating the transition from care to adulthood
• Safeguarding children and young people from child sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse
• Contextual safeguarding
• Engaging Participant Expert by Experience Researchers in the design and conduct of studies

In the Research Excellence Framework (REF2014) 78% of our research was assessed to be world-leading or internationally excellent.