The Department of Social Policy and Intervention (DSPI) has a long history of working to understand and ameliorate social problems. The department has been working in the field for around 100 years. The department’s research and teaching falls into two main areas: social policy and evidence-based social intervention. Research in the department is international in outlook – we have numerous comparative research projects as well as man studies focused on particular countries. Our research contributes both to academic knowledge and debates as well as to policy and practice. We have had a significant impact on policy, from the way in which government funds are allocated, to the design of policy instruments and the delivery of local programmes. The department has around 30 teaching and research staff, and each year welcomes about 70 new students. Some of these enter the DPhil programme and become part of our community for three years, joining a lively group of around 40 research students. We prepare students for academic careers and for careers implementing what they have learnt through government or non-governmental organisations. Our graduates go on to hold highly influential jobs in the field, making practical use of the knowledge and skills they gain through their study in the department. Paintings at the Department can be viewed on request by writing to the Administrator, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, Barnett House, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2ER.