Looking Ahead: Our Priorities for 2026

As we step into a new year, the RSS remains committed to advancing statistics for the public good. Building on the foundations laid in our 2024–2029 strategy and the progress achieved in 2025, we are excited to share our strategic priorities for 2026. 

Our focus for the year ahead reflects both continuity and ambition, strengthening what we do well while embracing new opportunities to serve our members, the profession and society. 

 

1. Creating a Sustainable Office 

2026 will see continued work to secure a new headquarters following the sale of Errol Street. Alongside this, we will: 

• Review and refine governance to ensure efficiency and inclusion 

• Scale up income generation to safeguard financial sustainability 

• Redesign our website to improve navigation, security and communication. 

   

2. Energising the Membership 

Our members are at the heart of everything we do. This year, we will: 

• Launch a new member satisfaction survey to deepen our understanding of member needs 

• Enhance engagement and create meaningful opportunities for professional development 

• Continue building a vibrant, inclusive community that reflects the diversity of our profession. 

 

3. Building on What We Do Well 

We will strengthen our core activities and expand our impact through: 

•  Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: Embedding recommendations from our Improving Member Data report and continuing initiatives like the Future Leaders programme 

• Data Science and AI: Delivering on the AI Taskforce’s priorities, highlighting the role of statistics in AI, and shaping policy around data ethics and governance 

• Professional Affairs: Working with partners to establish the Chartered Data Science qualification and accredit university courses, while exploring ways to support the legal system with expert statistical advice 

• Championing Statistics for Society. 

Beyond these priorities, we will continue to advocate for the independence and integrity of official statistics, foster understanding of statistics across professions and launch a new campaign to improve public understanding of AI. 

Read about our strategic priorities for 2026 in full here.  

Our 2025 Impact  

As we close the chapter on 2025, we’re proud to reflect on a year of progress and impact at the Royal Statistical Society. Join us as we look back at the highlights, celebrate the contributions of our members, and set the stage for an ambitious 2026 

Thank you to our members and partners for your continued support. Together, we will make 2026 a year of progress and impact.