Our Story

The research charity started life in Kings College, Cambridge, over 60 years ago – this timeline gives an overview of our rich history and influence.

Black and white photo of three men standing on the steps of a large brick building with a double door entrance. Two windows are visible on either side of the entrance.
Black and white image of a man in front of several people, wearing a suit and tie.

1960

The Dartington Social Research Unit is established in Devon, following a move from Kings College, Cambridge. Its Directors include Royston Lambert and Spencer Millham.

Its pioneering research into education results in the publication of ‘The Hothouse Society’ in 1968.

1970

Research into education continues and the focus of the Unit widens from to include all children in care. From 1971, government funding allows the unit to investigate the plight of young offenders.

Publications include ‘After Grace, Teeth’ and ‘Locking Up Children’.

Low angle view of a Gothic cathedral facade with ornate window and stone sculptures.
Black and white photo of an old stone building with Gothic-style windows at Dartington Devon and an archway, surrounded by landscaped gardens.
Two men sitting in an office, having a discussion, surrounded by bookshelves and large bright windows.
Black and white photo of a large historic building, possibly a manor or institutional building, with multiple chimneys and windows surrounded by open land.

1980

‘Lost In Care’ is published in 1986, providing a ground-breaking overview of the outcomes of children entering the care system.

The Unit’s work informs the 1989 Children Act, which legislates for the primacy of children’s needs and wellbeing.

1990

The Centre for Social Policy established in 1995, bolstering the Unit’s academic links. Research in Practice follows in 1996 (becoming independent in 2001), helping those who work with children and families use evidence in their practice.

Turning research into practical tools is an increasing focus, resulting in ‘Going Home’ and ‘Matching Needs and Services’, used by over half of English local authorities.

Elderly man wearing glasses in a black and white photograph, smiling and looking to the side.
Black and white photograph of a modernist building surrounded by bare trees.
Black and white photo of a person wearing glasses, sitting and gesturing with a hand, blurred background.
Black and white photo of a two-story barn-like building with a pitched roof. The structure has several windows and a balcony. The surroundings include a lawn, pathway, and trees in the background.

2000

The Unit’s work refocuses on prevention, early intervention, targeting of services, and rigorous experimental evaluation. The Unit supports a series of local government and philanthropic interventions.

The Journal of Children’s Services is launched by the Unit in 2007.

2010

The Unit supports Graham Allen MP to produce his independent report on Early Intervention, which leads to the setting up of the Early Intervention Foundation.

In September 2017, a new incarnation of the Unit is launched: the Dartington Service Design Lab, focussing on improving children’s outcomes by improving the services and systems that support them. Led by Tim Hobbs, the team works remotely across the UK, with a base in Buckfast Abbey, near Totnes.

In October 2020, the charity formalised the relationship with the Dartington Service Design Lab, by incorporating it as a company limited by a single share wholly owned by the Warren House Group at Dartington. The Lab’s continues to operate today as it has done for the last 3-4 years.

Black and white photo of a large stone building surrounded by leafless trees.
Black and white photo of a modern office with multiple people working at desks, surrounded by bookshelves and large windows.