The Festival of Social Science returns to Swansea for its third year, showcasing how social science research is shaping everyday life.

This year’s programme features a vibrant mix of free events, from immersive exhibitions and interactive workshops to expert-led talks and family-friendly activities. Explore topics ranging from women’s health and personal branding to tech repair, community safety, and the role of dogs in education.

Whether you're curious about social issues, keen to develop new skills, or simply looking for an inspiring day out, the festival offers something for everyone. Join us in celebrating the power of research to inform, challenge, and create positive change.

The Programme

Don't Bin It, Fix It! Electronics Repair with AI

The Environment Centre, Pier Street Swansea SA1 1RY

Tired of throw-away tech? Discover the power of repair in hands-on workshops using practical skills and AI tools. 

For adults (18+).

Book here

Technology and us

18/10/2025

11:00 - 13:00 BST

Event will be live

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man holding picture of broken plug

Private lives, public fictions Launch

Volcano Theatre, Swansea, SA1 1LG

Step into the lived experiences of sex workers in Wales through this powerful exhibition. Created with sex working artists and activists, it challenges stereotypes and invites reflection.

Ideal for professionals and researchers in justice, advocacy, and public health.

Book here

Social policy

28/10/2025

14:00 - 15:30 GMT

Event will be live

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woman holding wool over her face

Move, Power, Pause

The LC, Swansea Waterfront, Oystermouth Rd, SA1 3ST

Explore women’s health through interactive games, movement workshops, and free health screenings.

Open to all ages, genders, and fitness levels - drop in and get involved!

Learn more

Health & Wellbeing

29/10/2025

09:00 - 16:00 GMT

Event will be live

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image of women playing rugby

Dogs with Jobs: How Our Four-Legged Friends Help Us Learn and Thrive

Volcano Theatre, Swansea, SA1 1LG

Celebrate the amazing roles dogs play in homes, schools, and communities at this fun, hands-on event! Discover how dogs boost confidence, support learning, and enhance well-being.

Open to all and perfect for families.

Book here

Education

01/11/2025

10:00 - 13:00 GMT

Event will be live

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image of golden retriever

She Can Lead: A Personal Branding Workshop

Oriel Science, 21 Castle Street, Swansea, SA1 5AE

Build your personal brand with digital tools in this interactive workshop for women and girls (16+). Explore your values, strengths, and leadership, and hear from inspiring women leaders.

Open to women and girls (aged 16+). This event is drop-in only. 

Learn more

Technology and us

01/11/2025

11:00 - 13:00 GMT

Event will be live

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Women craft-making

Previous festivals

We were pleased to be joined by Bangor and Cardiff Universities to host the ESRC's offering a pan-Wales day of fun, informal and interactive events on wellbeing as part of the 2023 Festival of Social Science.

Swansea University hosted activities and workshops provided by researchers across the three Universities, following themes including mental health, behavioural change, artificial intelligence, dementia, environmental conservation, mental health, climate crisis, gender and identity, and social inequalities.

Read more about these activities

 

ESRC Festival of Social Science
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