This report reviewed the research that had previously been conducted through the Contestable Research Fund to determine if there were research areas or questions that may have been overlooked in its first five years of operation.

A social research strategy, covering investigation, monitoring and evaluation, has been outlined. Its suggested that this strategy is needed by the Service to provide the basis for developing a coherent body of social research that is clearly linked to its operational responsibilities. The strategy also provides a basis for possible future setting of research priorities, focusing on both immediate priorities and longer term issues. The strategy is the outcome of a meta-analysis of the research carried out to date in the social field and outlines the most fruitful areas for further research.

The strategy is solely concerned with social phenomena using social research methodologies. Research on the physical or environmental impacts of fire and related human activity is not included.