Cities and society
Many cities are currently suffering from growing social divides, poverty, inequality and exclusion, which negatively affect citizens and their quality of life. At Manchester we're working to overcome these obstacles, to create inclusive urban environments and societies that can be enjoyed by everyone.
Urban ageing – we're not old, we're experienced
Population ageing and urbanisation are two major social trends influencing life in the 21st century. The University of Manchester is at the forefront of both.
As cities get smarter there is an opportunity to promote independent living and address some of the obstacles faced by older residents in the community. Manchester was the first city in the world to be accepted into the WHO’s Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities. Now we are the lead institution in an international network examining ageing and urbanisation, and a member of the UK Urban Ageing Consortium.
We know that good quality of life in older age is often determined by access to transport. That’s why we're looking at the factors that can influence transport choice in older people, and working with transport providers to consider how mobility in the environment can be improved.
At our Manchester Institute for Collaborative Research on Ageing (MICRA), leading researchers and practitioners work with voluntary and public sector organisations to share expertise and experience. We shape policy and develop initiatives for age-friendly cities and dementia-friendly neighbourhoods; this means creating inclusive and accessible urban environments for all.
We shape cities that can be enjoyed by everyone. The world works better with us.
Class and equality – we're closing the divide
Many cities around the world are currently suffering from growing divides, poverty and inequality. Our researchers and partners in the public and private sectors are exploring the challenges we're now facing in Manchester, and how these can be overcome.
At The University of Manchester we recognise that growth in cities and overcoming poverty is not just about waiting for the next boom period. We need progress on growth, wealth creation and different ways of redistributing wealth. As cities develop there is scope for citizens to input into business success and drive this growth, and for business to be responsive to public opinion.
By creating an economic future that can support social institutions and development, and a decent standard of living for all, we can drive transformation in Manchester and in cities across the world.
We work with partners to explore social challenges. The world works better with us.