Lives: enhancing health and wellbeing for all

Lives flourish when health and wellbeing are supported in all their dimensions - human, animal and environmental. Wellbeing is at the cornerstone of thriving societies. This mission recognises the role of active lifestyles and sport, alongside healthcare, culture and education, in fostering healthier and more connected lives. Our work spans the physical, mental, social, cultural and digital aspects of life, addressing inequalities while advancing innovation in care, education and social support.

We investigate how online and offline worlds influence wellbeing, and how cultural practices - whether performed, consumed, or contested - shape identity and belonging. Through research, teaching and partnerships, we shape policies that improve quality of life and wellbeing across societies.

See research related to Lives
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Our Lives research explores:

  • Holistic health: Recognising the importance of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing, and tackling factors in the social and physical environment that favour or harm resilience and health.
  • Innovation in care: Advancing human and animal healthcare and welfare through new ideas, technologies and systems shaped by digital communication and commerce.
  • Equity and inclusion: Striving for fairness in education, healthcare and quality of life, while acknowledging human needs for justice, dignity and resilience.
  • Policy influence: Working with policymakers to shape decisions that improve outcomes and strengthen wellbeing and psychosocial resilience across communities, online and offline.
  • Flourishing communities: Creating conditions where people, animals, and societies thrive - living not just longer, but healthier, more connected and more meaningful lives.

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Tackling depression and suicide

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Enhancing avalanche safety through philosophy

Learn how our research is informing best practice among mountain safety practitioners, professionals and educators around the world.

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Improving pre-hospital emergency care

Our research has changed pre-hospital hypoglycaemia and handover practice across the UK and beyond.

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Tackling tobacco

Find out how our work to make tobacco products less attractive is helping to tackle one of society’s biggest health problems.

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The Daily Mile

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Dementia and ageing research

We find innovative solutions to the challenges of ageing and dementia that are enabling older people to live independent lives, for longer.

Supporting sustainable development

Our mission-orientated Lives research is aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting the critical contribution that Stirling is making to tackling complex global challenges.