Project overview for completed projects

Course Title: MSc Public Policy

Dissertation Title: How effective is the Universal Free School Meal provision policy in addressing inequalities in Tower Hamlets?

Community Partner: Ocean Regeneration Trust

Academic Supervisor: Indraneel Sircar 

Research Abstract:
The Ocean Estate Tower Hamlets Regeneration Project, initiated in 2009, transformed one of the UK's most deprived neighbourhoods into a thriving, mixed-use community. Over the years, the project has achieved notable successes in crime reduction, education improvements, and community engagement efforts. However, there has not been a comprehensive statistical analysis of the socio-economic transformations in the area.

This research conducted a comprehensive comparative study in the Tower Hamlets borough spanning a
decade from 2011 to 2021. In particular, it focussed on demographic changes and population dynamics,
leveraging Census data. The full report provided an analysis of topics in self-contained sections on social,
economic and demographic profiles. Each presented trends and comparisons with different time periods of Tower Hamlets, together with tables of supporting data.

The dissertation will be shared with Ocean Regeneration Trust to provide a geographical overview of
demographic changes in Tower Hamlets. Additionally, the researcher will update the Ocean Estate profile for 2023 with analysis and demographic variables of interest. The purpose of the exercise was to produce a baseline for the work of Ocean Regeneration Trust going forward, and contribute to more targeted assistance for those in need within the Ocean Estate.

Idea for research
Idea for research
The Ocean Estate Tower Hamlets Regeneration Project, initiated in 2009, transformed one of the UK's most deprived neighbourhoods into a thriving, mixed-use community. Over the years, the project has achieved notable successes in crime reduction, education improvements, and community engagement efforts. The proposed research aims to conduct a comprehensive comparative study spanning a decade from 2013 to 2023, leveraging Census data from 2021. This study seeks to offer an updated overview and, where feasible, an analysis of the socio-economic transformations resulting from large-scale regeneration initiatives formulated in the 1990s. The research hopes to yield policy insights, alongside quantitative and qualitative analyses, particularly focusing on demographic changes and population dynamics.
Impact of idea
• Policy Level: The research holds potential significance for various local government departments, including planning, housing, regeneration, and public health. It could catalyse policy changes and better support communities.
• Organisational Level: The findings could inform the strategic plans of the Ocean Regeneration Trust (ORT), shaping its future objectives and purposes.
• Community Level: The research may contribute to community repair, restoration, and cohesion efforts.
• Partnership Level: It will foster a community partnership between UCL and ORT.
Comments
ORT can facilitate seamless connections between students and key stakeholders, enhancing the research process and ensuring its relevance and impact. Where appropriate and beneficial, students can leverage the existing partnership between ORT and Queen Mary University of London, tapping into additional resources and expertise to enrich their research endeavours.

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Application process
Application criteria
Students from diverse disciplines are encouraged to apply, including but not limited to history, housing and regeneration, sociology, economics, public health, anthropology, human geography, social policy, UK politics, architecture, and urban planning.
DBS needed
Yes
Is this project fully accessible to students with the disabilities?
Yes

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