Faculty of Humanities
Social responsibility
Together, we’re addressing the challenges that shape our world.
Overview
Our story
In the Faculty of Humanities at The University of Manchester, social responsibility is more than a commitment - it is our foundational principle that universities should help shape a fairer, more inclusive and more sustainable world.
To us, social responsibility means tackling inequalities, supporting our communities, protecting culture and heritage, and addressing global challenges such as sustainability and social justice. Our research, teaching and public engagement help people understand the world and create change within it.
Our staff and students work alongside partners locally, nationally and globally to tackle real social challenges, amplify underrepresented voices and create meaningful social impact.
From supporting communities and influencing public policy to inspiring students to become socially conscious global citizens, Humanities at Manchester plays a vital role in the University’s proud civic mission.
Our commitment to social responsibility is also put into practice through initiatives such as The Justice Hub, which supports local communities while giving students valuable real-world experience.
93% of our research is rated 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent' - REF 2021.
Our annual Making a Difference Awards celebrate the achievements of staff, students and external partners.
Ranked 1st in the UK and Europe, and 2nd globally for social and environmental impact.
We work with civic, cultural and community organisations across Greater Manchester.
Discover our stories
Accounting students put their skills to work helping Manchester charities
Postgraduate students are using their accounting expertise to help local charities tackle financial challenges and make a lasting difference in their communities.
Making a difference: A year of social responsibility at The University of Manchester
Celebrating a year of progress that has boosted sustainability, empowered communities and expanded the University’s social impact.
Meet the SEED Change-makers: how students are driving social impact at Manchester
Students at SEED are creating real social impact through innovative, student-led projects.
Making a Difference Awards 2026
Recognising achievements that deliver real community impact within the School of Social Sciences.
Social responsibility in our Schools
Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS)
AMBS was the first business school to make social responsibility a core strategic goal. With key priorities such as engaging communities, responsible processes and environmental sustainability, AMBS aims to contribute to societal wellbeing and influence policymakers with through socially responsible research.
School of Arts, Languages and Cultures (SALC)
The School of Arts, Languages and Cultures is dedicated to making a difference at local, national and international levels through engaging communities, responsible processes, environmental sustainability and producing socially responsible graduates.
School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED)
Social responsibility is built into every aspect of the School of Environment, Education and Development, including teaching, research and public events and activities. SEED is committed to engaging and partnering with diverse organisations to support new conversations and new ideas to improve lives.
The School strives to empower students to lead social responsibility activities to enable them to become socially responsible graduates equipped to navigate and make positive contributions in an increasingly uncertain world.
School of Social Sciences (SoSS)
Social responsibility is central to teaching, research and engagement activity in the School of Social Sciences (SoSS). SoSS is committed to public service through ensuring its research has a positive impact on public life.
Furthermore, the School’s Justice Hub, support of global causes, and environmental sustainability further demonstrates its dedication to social responsibility at all levels.