Herts academics run free ‘break and learn’ sessions to share cutting-edge social science research
Designed to fit easily into the working day, these free, hour-long ‘break and learn’ sessions offer an opportunity to discover cutting-edge social science research from University of Hertfordshire experts - wherever you are.
On Tuesday 4 November, and Thursday 6 November participants can choose from a diverse line-up of useful topics — from juggling health and food choices at work and supporting older people with tech and AI, to essential tools for starting and managing your own business.
Specialised sessions then include one for local social workers on the impact of dogs in their work and how to manage aggressive dog behaviour; while midwives, healthcare professionals, and anyone working with imprisoned mothers are invited to learn more about the experiences of women separated from their babies while in custody, and what is being done to support national policy change.
Rebecca O’Connell, Professor of Food, Families and Society at the Centre for Research in Public Health and Community Care (CRIPACC) at the University of Hertfordshire, who co-leads the institution’s Festival of Social Science programme, said:
“These Festival of Social Science, online, bite-sized sessions are a brilliant way to pause during the working day, grab some refreshments, and engage with research that’s directly relevant to our everyday lives. From food and health to business and technology, each talk offers fresh insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping our working lives — and how social science can help drive meaningful change.”
The full programme of online events being run for the University of Hertfordshire is as follows:
Tuesday 4 November
14.00-15.00 - Care work and canines: tips for social workers in managing dogs during home visits
Social care professionals often face unexpected challenges during home visits — including navigating households with dogs. This session, based on University of Hertfordshire research, explores the often-overlooked pressures that arise when encountering dogs in the course of care work. Aimed specifically at social workers, the event will share key research findings alongside expert insights from a dog behaviour specialist, including how to recognise signs of stress in dogs and safely de-escalate tense situations. Attendees will leave with practical strategies and real-world solutions to help manage canine encounters with confidence and care.
Join Dr Claire Thompson and Lauren Denyer to hear about fascinating findings from the SALIENT Food Trials, which investigate how our food systems impact health and sustainability. Learn how members of the public have shaped this research and discover how to get involved in future projects at the University.
Thursday 6 November
11.00-12.00 - Tech & AI in later life: Tools, tips and confidence for the digital world
Technology plays a central role in everyday life, yet not everyone experiences it equally. Discover our University of Hertfordshire research into how older people use digital tools and AI, and also learn practical tips on how to make technology more inclusive for everyone.
11.20-12.30 - Business basics: Essential tools for starting and managing your own business
Running a business requires managing budgets, cash flow, legal obligations, and client expectations. University of Hertfordshire research uses business simulations to teach these skills to students, and now professionals, small business owners are invited to learn from the findings and reflect on their own practice. Join this online session to explore decision-making, risk management, and soft skills, and share your insights to help shape future research. This is a unique chance to connect evidence-based learning with professional experience and contribute to understanding how to develop essential business skills.
14.00-15.00 - Lost Mothers: Working lives in the shadows of separation
Join Professor Laura Abbott a leading researcher on maternal health in prison, for a powerful afternoon event exploring the experiences of mothers separated from their babies while in custody. Featuring a short film and panel discussion with women with lived experience, charities, and health professionals, this event highlights the importance of trauma-informed and rights-based care.
The ESRC Festival of Social Science is an annual celebration of research and knowledge about humans and society. It’s a key element of ESRC’s commitment to share UK social science research with new audiences. This year the festival is being held from 18 October to 8 November 2025 and features hundreds of free events across the UK for both children and adults, run by 41 universities and research institutes.
Stian Westlake, ESRC Executive Chair, said:
"The ESRC Festival of Social Science offers a unique insight into how UK social science research helps bring about positive change for individuals, society and the economy. There are hundreds of free events taking place across the UK and online, including at the University of Hertfordshire. We hope you enjoy the events and finding out more about the work of the UK's world-class social scientists."
Sign up for one or more of the University of Hertfordshire’s online 'break and learn' events now.