The report showcases the findings of a literature review, exploratory interviews, surveys, a workshop discussion and an expert elicitation exercise looking at the backgrounds, current practices, experiences, and aspirations of social scientists in Natural Environment Organisations (NEOs). It aimed to:
• Embrace the social science ‘turn’ which has seen a notable recent increase in the numbers of social scientists working in government, arm’s length bodies, the third sector and private sector;
• Improve our understanding of current social science practice in these organisations and explore opportunities for the sector to embrace, integrate and develop its social science capability and ambition to deliver greater socio-environmental impact.
The project was participatory, working with NEO partners to develop research on the integration and development of social science expertise within NEOs. It has learning for social scientists within NEOs and wider and for those who work with social scientists or wish to do so to improve outcomes for the natural environment.