ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses many aspects of how research in the social sciences intersects with central and devolved governments. The role of social science research is highly variable across local authorities (LAs), depending in part on their size and scale of responsibilities. The Medical Research Council has funded for many years a medical sociology unit and other units engaged in social science research. The Health Development Agency also commissions much systematic research, though focused more on the impacts of interventions than on 'blue-skies' work on inequalities. A characteristic of some parts of the medical system is the joint appointment of clinical academic staff by universities and National Health Service (NHS) hospital trusts; they are expected to practice, research and teach in their areas of expertise. A very important change in the NHS with ramifications for the social sciences is the advent of Primary Care Trusts.
