How We Do Research

Our purpose is to advance education on the family and related issues. We publish research and analysis so readers can weigh the evidence and form their own view.

Topic selection
We select topics that are timely, have policy relevance and where there is a clear evidence base to review. Proposals are considered against scope, feasibility and public benefit.

Who undertakes the work
Projects are led by staff or commissioned authors with relevant subject knowledge. Short author biographies and any competing interests are listed on each report.

Method and standards
Most publications are literature reviews, data analyses or case studies. Each report states its scope, sources, method and limitations, and signposts alternative perspectives.

Internal review and external input
Drafts are reviewed by at least two trustees or external readers for accuracy, clarity and balance. Where a specialist method is used, we seek a subject‑matter check.

Publication policy
We intend to publish useful results whether or not they support our prior assumptions. If material cannot be published, we will record why.

Separation of research and opinion
We clearly label Research, Briefings, Opinion and Press releases. Research pages present evidence first and analysis second. Opinion pages contain commentary.

Conflicts of interest
Trustees, staff and authors declare relevant interests. A conflicted person does not take part in decisions about that matter.

Dissemination
We publish on our website and may submit to journals, respond to consultations or present at events. We link to primary sources wherever possible.