What is wellbeing inequality? How can we measure it and could it provide a better indicator than income inequality alone?

Is it for you?

The lecture is aimed at innovative decision-makers and analysts from across all sectors, including business, civil society, local and central government, and health searching for fresh approaches to deal with complex problems. We will also be launching new research that looks at how local authorities measure wellbeing inequalities, and shares the differing rates of wellbeing inequalities across the UK.

What will you learn?

Grappling with ideas about measuring and understanding inequality, Professor Helliwell will talk through the realities of using wellbeing evidence to inform local and national policy. Everything from the likeliest sources of wellbeing inequality; measuring it within and among communities; and how to make the most of limited data sets.

A useful comparison with current wellbeing inequality measurement in Canada will also offer insight into which measures of subjective well-being could provide the best basis for measuring inequality.

How does it go beyond theory?

Beyond an analysis of wellbeing inequality, Professor Helliwell will discuss with the audience what our next steps might be as policy makers in local and national government.

There will also be a drinks reception for open discussion with a range of thinkers and practitioners from different fields related to wellbeing. You'll also be able to meet the What Works Centre for Wellbeing team and see our latest research.

Event timings

2:30 - Registration

3:00 - John Helliwell: “Wellbeing Inequalities” (introduction by Kevin Fenton, Director of Health and Wellbeing, Public Health England)

3:50 - Q&A session

4:00 - Drinks reception and open discussion

What Works for Wellbeing Annual Lecture 2017: Wellbeing Inequalities