Trustworthy and effective institutions

Public trust in key governing authorities in the UK is severely strained, compounded by misinformation, polarised public discourse, and reduced state capacity. We will work with researchers and other partners to explore ways of fostering effective institutions that can anchor local communities, improve decision-making and bolster trust in our systems of governance.

We have a history of funding research into institutions, as well as incubating and building new capability, and a longstanding interest in justice as a pillar of a fair society. We are looking to build on these foundations and renew our focus on what makes for an effective institution.

We will focus on:

• Identify what builds and sustains public trust in institutions
• Explore how systems can be improved
• Consider where new institutional capacity might be needed

What we’re interested in

These are particular questions we are interested in exploring. We welcome proposals that address them directly or explore adjacent issues. If your work aligns with our aims, we’d like to hear from you.

• What factors shape levels of trust in institutions, especially those whose decisions shape people’s lives?
• How can national and local institutions best combine the need for technical expertise with accessibility, legitimacy and accountability in decision-making?
• What are the most effective and appropriate ways of allowing the public meaningful engagement and “voice” in different institutional settings?
• How can new and traditional sources of data best be harnessed by public institutions to achieve better outcomes for citizens?
• What should the role of the justice system be in ensuring the quality, accountability, and legality of institutions and their decision-making?