Making change: What works?

Article

Movements change the world. Throughout history, loosely organised networks of individuals and organisations have sought changes to societies – and won. From the abolitionist struggle and campaigns for voting rights to #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter, the impact of movements can be seen everywhere.

Over the last year, IPPR and the Runnymede Trust have sought to understand what we can learn from movements that have made change – as well as those who have fallen short – for our efforts to create change today.

We did this by exploring what worked and didn’t work for four movements from recent decades. These were: LGBTQ+ rights, race equality, climate action, and health inequality.

Related items

  1. A group of children sit around a table at primary school. A little boy smiles into the camera

    Breaking the cycle: A blueprint for special educational needs and disability (SEND) reform

    The education system is not working well enough for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), their families, or the professionals delivering support.
  2. A group of young women laughing sitting around a cafe table

    Making space: Meeting the needs of young women and girls through Young Futures

    This is a critical moment for the government’s delivery of Young Futures Hubs, which can transform outcomes for young women and girls. 
  3. Doctor with patient for consultation, medical advice or procedure at clinic

    Building the foundations for transformation in the NHS

    The government has published a bold 10-year plan to transform England’s health system which, if fully delivered, will make the NHS of tomorrow look radically different from today’s service.