Search Results
Given its strong research base, separate administrative systems and consensual policy style, Scotland provides an interesting case for exploring the relationship between research and policy. This paper outlines approaches and initiatives developed by government, research funders and universities to promote better linkages between research and policy within Scotland. It illustrates how these play out through the example of the Scottish Early Years Framework and reflects on: the overall character of these initiatives; their success to date; some of the concerns they raise; and the extent to which these developments address those features generally associated with effective practices to increase research impact.
One of the most obvious social changes over the second half of the 20th century was the increase in the proportion of young people using alcohol and different kinds of drugs. Recreational use of illegal substances has increased and is now a conspicuous part of the social landscape. We know that using substances is associated with a range of poor outcomes. The UK has a high level of adolescent alcohol consumption and problem use. What are the implications? The literature is rarely focused on the more specifically developmental aspects of use in adolescence, and preliminary evidence suggests that indeed there may be links between the rising trends in both substance use and mental health outcomes.