Who we are
The Common Sense Policy Group comprises academics, policymakers, third sector leaders, community representatives, media figures and people with lived experience. We are all committed to creating a fair, equal and inclusive Britain through developing and influencing redistributive policy that addresses the inequality and exclusion that has come to define our nation. We present consensus on feasible, affordable and overwhelmingly popular evidence-based policies that can form the basis for a programme for progressive Government. Read more…
What we do
Research: We examine the impact of existing systems and what the prospective benefits of alternatives might be.
Policy: We develop evidence-based policy proposals that address key modern challenges and achieve popular support.
Engagement and impact: We create outputs and engage with partners to translate research to real-world goals.
We Cannot Afford Cuts: An Alternative to the Spending Review and welfare reform
This report challenges the flawed assumptions underpinning the UK Government’s fiscal strategy, exposing the long-term economic damage caused by sustained spending cuts and regressive welfare policies. Drawing on new evidence, we demonstrate how applying our Common Sense Spending Multipliers reveals the true value of public investment as a powerful driver of long-term growth. Read more…
Basic Income: The Policy That Changes Everything
Basic Income: The Policy That Changes Everything, published by Bristol University Press (£9.99), is the Common Sense Policy Group’s bold new book that ties together theory with groundbreaking evidence from real-world trials to show why Basic Income isn’t just possible – it’s the vital solution to our age of crisis, paving the way for a fairer society. It explores the ripple effects of financial security – better health, stronger communities, more education, meaningful work, and engaged citizenship. By breaking the cycle of poverty, basic income unlocks access to essentials like food and housing, empowers people, and fuels long-term thinking and entrepreneurship. Read more…
