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About us
Who we are
We are one of the world’s leading organisations to promote the importance of statistics and data, and have done so since we were founded in 1834. We’re a professional body for all statisticians and data analysts – wherever they may live. We have more than 8,000 members in the UK and across the world. They are at the core of what we do and make us who we are.
As a charity, we advocate the key role of statistics and data in society, and we work to ensure that policy formulation and decision making are informed by evidence for the public good.
Everything we do is guided by our Strategic Plan 2014-18, which has six goals at its heart:
'Our vision is a world where data are at the heart of understanding and decision-making.'
Statistics and the public interest. For statistics to be used effectively in the public interest, so that policy formulation and decision-making are informed by evidence of the good of society.
Education and statistical literacy. For society to be more statistically literate, so that people’s understanding of data, risk and probability can inform their daily decision-making, leading to better outcomes.
Developing the profession. For a strong body of professional statisticians to maintain and develop the skills they need so that they can critically apply methodology, interpret results and communicate findings.
Strengthening the discipline. For statistics as a discipline to thrive, so that methodology is advanced, applied and made accessible, leading to greater understanding of an increasingly complex world.
Engaging the membership, staff and partners. For an engaged and energised membership and staff to work collaboratively with partner organisations and other stakeholders in meeting these goals, so that the Society can maximise its impact.
Being a well-run organisation. For the RSS to be a financially sustainable and well-run organisation, with effective governance and use of technology so that it will grow in relevance and exert influence.
Governance
We are an independent and self-governing membership organisation with a governance structure outlined in our 1887 royal charter and bye-laws.
History
Since our foundation in 1834 at a public meeting in the Horticultural Society we have celebrated many milestones, from our first elected woman member (Florence Nightingale in 1858) to the launch of our first conference in 1948.
Corporate documents
Our annual reports and accounts are available for download together with our Strategic Plan and other documents.
Our people
There is a small team of staff based in our head office in London.
