Annual review 2019 The Society

Vision Society objectives A world-leading learned and The Royal Geographical Society (with professional body for geography, IBG) exists for ‘the advancement of widely respected for its independence, geographical science’. For the current quality, innovation, and for the breadth strategy, 2017-2021, this purpose has of its activities promoting and been expressed as six strategic supporting geography as the means objectives for the organisation. These for everyone to discover, understand focus the activities of the Society and and respect the world’s people, ensure that the Society’s operational places and environments. development is planned, integrated and responsive to the needs of the Mission discipline, its practitioners, the public A world centre for geography and at large and the membership. Three geographical learning dedicated to objectives concern first and foremost the development and promotion of the discipline. These are to safeguard knowledge together with its application the discipline, to develop and share to the challenges facing society and geographical knowledge and the environment. understanding, and to support practitioners and students. Three objectives concern the Society. These

are to grow our reputation, enhance our membership and sustain the future. The Society’s work is organised into thematic departments, each of which The Society is a charity that exists for contributes work to several objectives. public benefit and which also has a broad-based membership that supports its mission and aims. The Society was independently recognised in 2013 as the leading scholarly geographical society in the world.

Registered Charity 208791 Rt Hon Baroness From the President President

Looking back over 2019, the mid-point As a former government minister and However these are just a few examples of the Society’s current strategic period, a member of the House of Lords, I am of the Society’ current work. I encourage I am heartened to see the progress encouraged to see the reinvigoration you to explore the full details of the of the organisation and how together of the Society’s knowledge exchange breadth of activities that are outlined we are striving to achieve our charitable activities. Ensuring that current over the following pages. objective to advance geographical geographical research informs As President, part of my role is to ensure science. policy by providing opportunities for the Society’s governance is in good geographers and policymakers to order. I am therefore very pleased to share ideas, sound evidence and report that after a review during 2019, understanding is a vital element of the Society’s governance processes the Society’s work. have been improved. The main outcome A range of impacts that have resulted of this has been aligning the terms from geographical research can of references of the committees of also be seen in the collection of case Council to ensure they are clear and studies published on the Society’s complementary. website. Individually they demonstrate The governance review also reminded the successes of particular research me of the commitment of so many projects, but together they champion the of our Fellows and members and the vital role geography and geographers enthusiasm you show in helping the play in understanding and managing organisation not just to function, but some of the most important challenges to achieve beyond everyone’s facing us today. expectations. Therefore I would like to As well as demonstrating the impact end by thanking you sincerely for your of the discipline, it is also important continued support of the Society. that we highlight the value of studying Every Fellow, member, donor, advisor geography to young people and and volunteer makes a difference. This their parents. And the new career is greatly valued by the Trustees and all profiles that showcase the diverse who work so hard for the Society. and rewarding paths that studying

geography can open up for young geographers do just that. 2/3

2019 Frederick Soddy Schools Award recipients The 2019 Annual Conference was attended on the Isle of Cumbrae by over 2,000 delegates © Rowena Ranger © Panel 8 Photography Climate change challenges event 2019 Ralph Brown Expedition Award recipient © RGS-IBG Dr Maria Beger studying a subtropical reef ecosystem © Carrie Sims Professor Joe Smith From the Director Director

As a member of the Society, you will A YouGov poll commissioned by In 2019, the Society demonstrably be well aware of the central role that the Society and carried out during the did make a difference. We supported geography plays in how we understand summer of 2019 demonstrated that teachers by providing them with up and make sense of the world around the majority of the public recognise to date case studies, award-winning us. Geographical skills and knowledge geography as the GCSE subject that teaching resources based on real world play a prominent role in progressing teaches pupils about climate change. situations and training to develop their insight and action on climate change And we also know, from independent subject knowledge and skills. We and sustainability. They also bring research we commissioned on the supported professional geographers distinctive insights into the interactions geography of geography students, by enhancing the mentoring offered between social, technological and that at GCSE the fastest rate of to Chartered Geographers, celebrating economic change. growth is among pupils from black their successes and highlighting the and minority ethnic (BAME) and impact of geographical knowledge disadvantaged backgrounds. in the workplace. We supported academics by providing spaces to In this period of geopolitical and exchange and test ideas, and teaching economic upheaval, and of increasingly and learning resources for early career evident climate risks, it is heartening researchers. Through our awards, to see the levels of engagement, publications and media work we also particularly by young people, with such ensured that they received recognition issues. Geographical insights can inform for their achievements. We enabled the and support anyone who is determined work of those undertaking fieldwork to change the world for the better. and expeditions by providing advice The Society is a rarity in that we connect and training, and ensuring their stories geographers at all levels and across all reached a wider audience. We supported sectors, from enthusiasts, students and members of the public by providing teachers, to academics, professionals accessible, informative and engaging and expeditioners. This is where we events, publications and social garner our strength and ability to make media content. a difference. As you will read in the following pages, this represents just a selection of the Society’s work over the last year, but it also signals our ambitions for the future. 4/5 1 Geography Promoting and sustaining a vibrant discipline

Objective Represent, promote The Society is a highly influential and effective voice for geography in the UK, and advocate for geography as and is valued across the geographical community for its advocacy on behalf of a leading discipline, so that its contribution to understanding our the discipline. During 2019, we increased the visibility of our work with decision changing world is appreciated by makers, reinvigorated our work to connect researchers with policy makers and the public and it maintains a strong showcased the breadth of careers open to those who choose geography. position in education, research, fieldwork and expeditions, in civic society and in informing policy 1.1 Making the case for geography In the autumn our series of knowledge and business. During 2019, the development of a series of exchange events, the Environment and Context Geography has an resources and the hosting of several events Society Forum, was relaunched. Again the essential role in the 21st century was made possible by the Society’s research community was involved from the in helping everyone to understand convening power and strong networks with beginning to ensure a close and effective our world. 2012 to 2016 saw significant strengthening in the individuals and organisations across the connection could be built between them standing and study of geography. government, business, education, and and the business, professional and policy 2017 to 2021 has uncertainties research sectors. In particular, valuable communities. The first event, on the barriers in the face of UK political and economic change. engagement with the Geographers and opportunities surrounding the financing in Government group was sustained progress towards net zero carbon emissions, throughout the year, alongside strong links generated constructive discussion across with other geographical societies and sectors and a report that will help to inform relevant sister bodies worldwide. future action in this area. Over 30 case studies that demonstrate the Geographers from across the breadth of value of geographical research and its the discipline were invited to submit career impacts were published on the Society’s profiles to demonstrate the range of paths website. This bank of easy to access that studying geography can open up. By the materials was produced in partnership with end of 2019, nearly 100 profiles, ranging from the research community and one strand of early career researchers and teachers, to them focuses on geospatial applications senior figures in industry and government while other strands include health and social had been published on our website. These care, environment and natural resources, profiles have been shared across our social and service delivery. This evidence base is media platforms to raise awareness among now being shared widely with stakeholders parents, as well as young people themselves, and influencers to ensure they have the of the value of a geographical education. greatest reach. More profiles continue to be added.

One of nearly 100 new career profiles on the Society’s website: Terri Freemantle in the field © Terri Freemantle 6/7

Colouring London data skills project Earth Photo competion entry. Detail: Shark Bay, Study 5 (2017) © Colouring London contributors (building attributes) and © Yi Sun © Crown copyright (OS Maps baselayers and building outlines)

1.2 Advising on geography Education had a positive meeting with In November, the Society’s response to During 2019, the Society responded the Minister for School Standards, the media reports concerning the diversity to nine consultations including ones Rt Hon Nick Gibb MP. of geography students was published on degree classification, open access in The Times, The Independent and 1.3 Promoting geography publishing and the inspection framework The Evening Standard. The response to wider audiences for schools. These responses were drew on initial results from our geography The Society's Geography Ambassadors generated in collaboration with the of geography research that showed programme maintained its reach with relevant sectors of the geographical there is an increase in BAME students approximately 30,000 pupils attending community. at GCSE. more than 900 Ambassador sessions The Society continued to advocate for across England, Northern Ireland and The Society sustained work across the geography as a data rich school subject Wales during 2019. geographical community to improve through our Data Skills project, the Data diversity and inclusion, including The Society’s Earth Photo competition Skills Taskforce and the Royal Society maintaining support for sector-led and exhibition over the summer resulted Post 16 Maths Pathways Committee. programmes, such as Athena Swan, in coverage in Outdoor Photography, that support underrepresented groups The Society also maintained its ongoing Photography News, MailOnline, and in higher education institutions. contact with Ministers and officials The Guardian. The Society featured in across a range of relevant governmental an episode of How to outperform, a departments during what was a podcast series produced by Audible politically turbulent year. In particular, looking at UK organisations that have the Director, President and Head of stood the test of time. 2 Knowledge and understanding Helping create a better informed world

Objective Advance, interpret and In a year of political uncertainty, the Society provided much needed spaces for both share geographical knowledge more geographers and members of the public to explore and share new geographical fully, so that the world is better understood and more people knowledge. From grant recipients and delegates at the Annual International benefit from using and enjoying Conference to teachers and attendees at public discussion events, the Society geographical knowledge in their supported and promoted expert knowledge and informed participation. work, leisure and communities. Context In a period of 2.1 Advancing knowledge most pressured cities: Colombo (Sri Lanka), uncertainty and rapid change there Through our grants programme, the Society Dhaka (Bangladesh), Harare (Zimbabwe), is a greater need than ever to advance, and share, well-founded supported 67 field research projects and and Hargeisa (Somaliland). knowledge and understanding of scientific expeditions, and awarded £197,000 The team presented their initial findings at the UK and the world. And to do so during 2019. These projects involved nearly in ways that are meaningful to several conferences, including the Society’s 100 individuals carrying out research in professional and public audiences Annual International Conference, and today. We will bring our 45 countries across the world. The 2019 developed a programme of outreach to share independence, convening grants programme enabled, among many the implications of the research with a broad power and inspiration to bear. other projects, researchers to investigate audience including local policymakers subtropical corals, iceberg calving and and UK parliamentarians. The educational sustainable Tanzanite mining; postgraduates resources produced by the Society based to explore the meaning of ‘zero-deforestation’, on the project were shortlisted for an award. the past climate of the South Pacific Islands, and microplastics in UK lakes; and teams of The Society is part of the Science Museum undergraduates to gain research experience and Archives Consortium and, with funding in Siberia, Italy and Peru. from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), has supported 12 PhD With the fieldwork for the Society’s collaborative studentships working on our Collections. Field Research Programme, Migrants on the In 2019, the consortium was successful in margins, completed, the multinational team receiving a further three years of funding, and – led by Professor Michael Collyer (University projects on Circulating Arctic science and of Sussex) – focussed during 2019 on the Expeditionary filmmaking were completed. analysis of the data collected. The project, which is a partnership between the Society and UK and international researchers, is investigating the vulnerabilities and opportunities of migrants in four of the world’s 8/9

CDA students discussing Collections items © Panel 8 Photography 2.2 Interpreting and of footage from Ralph Bagnold’s included field visits to Mousehold sharing knowledge innovative expeditions in the Sahara Heath, Hengistbury Head, and During 2019, more than 32,000 people Desert, accompanied by a silent Burrington Ham; talks on the impacts attended over 400 events as part of film pianist. of palm oil, climate change and the Society’s events programme for migration; as well as social events. The Society’s Monday night lecture members, the public and specialist series for Fellows, members and their The Society’s public engagement audiences. guests continued to be well attended project, Discovering Britain underwent Amended event formats in the public and garner positive feedback for their a thorough review during the first programme, such as a greater focus on variety and insight. The lectures attracted three months of 2019. It concluded discussion and audience participation, an average of 600 people each Monday, that the project was not financially as well as selecting very topical issues, while many more watched the high sustainable in its current format. saw a shift in the demographics of quality recordings of them on the The project website remains live and those attending our events to include a Society’s website. Speakers in 2019 continues to be promoted, and over greater proportion of under 30 year olds included Alastair Fothergill talking about time the content will be incorporated than in previous years. his innovative new nature documentary into the Society’s main website and series, Our Planet; Sir social media platforms. Topical discussions during the year discussing his book about the Erebus: included fast fashion, the future of cities, The second year of the Society’s the story of a ship; and Dr Kate Edwards and Brexit. While an event linked to the Earth Photo competition, developed exploring digital world-building. international climate meeting, COP25, in partnership with Forestry England that combined panel discussions, The nine UK regional committees and attracted 1,200 competition entries one-to-one conversations with experts the Regional Theatres Programme and the subsequent exhibition of and virtual reality, explored not only enabled Fellows, members and the shortlisted images and films was the science of climate change, but also public across England, Wales and on show in the Society’s Pavilion what positive action individuals can Northern Ireland to access a wide for six weeks before touring to meaningfully take. variety of geographical talks, field visits three Forestry England venues. The and social events. In 2019, speakers competition succeeded in not only The Society’s Collections were in the Regional Theatres Programme generating amazing images, but showcased through a series of displays, included Gillian Burke, Professor Lewis also in revealing the geographical talks and film screenings, including Dartnell and Tim Marshall. stories behind them and engaging a talk on Thomas Atkinson’s diaries, a public audiences with the full breadth display of artefacts and images from The programme of events organised of geography’s concerns. Eric Newby’s archive, and a screening by the volunteer regional committees 10/11

In June, the Society launched a new and a display of banners portraying the Event – were published in the essay competition for A Level students contemporary geographers. Society’s book series during the year. in partnership with the Financial Times. As usual, the conference programme Throughout 2019, progress was made Students were asked to produce a was, in large part, produced by the in digitising a very large proportion of convincing argument on whether it Society’s Research Groups. Alongside the items in the Society’s Collections as is better for the world to be wealthier this, in 2019 the Research Groups also part of the Wiley Blackwell Digitisation or more equal. The annual Young organised events and workshops for Project. Once complete, the project Geographer of the Year competition their members and gave awards to will enable institutional access to the attracted over 15,000 entries as pupils recognise excellence in their areas of Collections from across the globe, aged from nine to 18 answered the discipline. opening up new opportunities for the question ‘where can geography research and engagement with this take you?’. The Society’s scholarly journals (Area, unique resource. Transactions of the Institute of British The 2019 Annual International Geographers, The Geographical Journal 2.3 Extending our engagement Conference was chaired by Professor and Geo) and book series continued to with new audiences Hestor Parr (University of Glasgow), disseminate new geographical research Independent research commissioned who chose Geographies of trouble/ findings during 2019. New co-editors by the Society into The Geography of geographies of hope as the conference were appointed to all of the journals and Geography Students reported towards theme. Held at the Society in London, it the editor of the book series came to the the end of 2019. The research looked was one of the largest ever conferences end of their tenure at the end of 2019. in detail at the nature and distribution with over 460 sessions and more than of the populations studying GCSE, 2,000 attendees. The conference During the year, the Society continued A Level and undergraduate geography. programme included sessions for to be actively involved in discussions The findings include the fact that postgraduate students and early career to evaluate possible future business one of the fastest growing groups of researchers, as well as featuring high models for open access publishing, GCSE geography students is those profile plenary lectures and journal and the timelines for implementation. with a minority ethnic background. sponsored talks. A greater effort Our journals are available in over This and other new insights will than in previous years was put into 13,500 institutions worldwide, inform future Society activities communicating the different initiatives including almost 8,000 in the Global and interventions, and will help to to reduce use of resources and improve South via philanthropic initiatives. shape how we work with the wider inclusivity. These included the Two new books – Geographies of geographical community to support introduction of a new code of conduct Anticolonialism and Geopolitics and underrepresented audiences. for all delegates, no single use plastic

2019 RGS-IBG Postgraduate Research Award recipient Nathaniel Baurley conducting fieldwork in south east Iceland © Nathaniel Baurley 12/13 3 Geography in practice Enabling professional and student communities

Objective Help meet the needs As the UK’s professional body for geography, the Society is committed to helping of practising geographers and meet the needs of practising geographers and students so that there are vibrant, students, so that there are vibrant, well trained, accredited professional well-trained and accredited professional communities, and highly employable communities, and highly employable students. The Society’s work sustains a strong training function in schools, higher students. education and field science, and we support the pipeline of geographers into a Context Geographical knowledge range of professional communities. and skills are increasingly recognised at work and sought 3.1 Promoting the professionalism 3.2 Developing substantially out by employers. Professional development and accreditation is of geography and geographers the programme of professional becoming more widely valued and In June the first ever Geographers in support and accreditation rewarded by employers. It is timely Government Award was presented at the During 2019, the Society’s programme of to expand the Society’s role as a professional body and its support Society’s Medals and Awards Ceremony, support and accreditation for professional for professional geographers. showcasing the close working relationship geographers was significantly enhanced due between the Society and the Geographers to the appointment of two new members in Government group, which recognises the of staff, and this was overseen by a newly work of geographers within the civil service established professional advisory group. and now has over 1,000 members. And in In Chartered Geographer (CGeog) – the November, the Society hosted the second internationally recognised professional Geographers in Government conference. accreditation for people using geographical The Society also continued the close working knowledge and skills in the workplace – the relationship with the AGI throughout the framework of competencies that guide CGeog year, enabling more effective promotion applicants towards accreditation was updated of Chartered Geographer accreditation and aligned with the framework used by the to the GI community than previously. Geographers in Government group. A new code of conduct for CGeogs was also The Society also continued to engage with introduced that outlines explicitly the the Geospatial Commission and others expected behaviours of a professional working on geospatial skills develooment. geographer. The mentoring and support offered to current CGeogs and initial applicants was also enhanced.

One of nearly 100 career profiles on the Delegates in discussion during website: Andy Rumfitt in a team meeting the Financing net zero event © Andy Rumfitt © Panel 8 Photography

3.3 Sustaining a strong training A new guide for postgraduate students an expedition to an area in Borneo function in schools, higher who teach was developed using that took place 64 years ago, and education and field science content and learning from two training a presentation from a recipient of The Society’s Geography Teacher workshops – held in Liverpool and the Society’s Fieldwork Apprentice Training Scholarship programme, funded Newcastle – on the topic. The higher grants on the installation of low cost by the Department for Education, education community were also asked environmental sensors in a cloud forest successfully recruited 139 Scholars to contribute teaching and learning in the Colombian Andes. who started their training in September materials to a new searchable resource Alongside Explore, over 525 individuals 2019, and continued to support previous bank on the Society’s website. attended training courses organised cohorts of Scholars who are now in their In 2019, five more universities had their by Geography Outdoors with the aim first or second year of teaching. geography programmes accredited of upskilling and sharing best practice Alongside the support for new and very during 2019, bringing the total to 135. among the community of expeditioners. early career geography teachers offered More than 350 people attended Explore, through the Scholarship programme, the Society’s expedition and fieldwork during 2019 the Society continued to planning weekend in November. Explore run high quality continuing professional brings together new and experienced development (CPD) for almost 1,600 field researchers to support each other, geography teachers. Topics covered share ideas and make connections. during these sessions included fieldwork Highlights included a report from a skills, data skills and changing places. group of students who had retraced 14/15

2019 at a glance

Research and Higher Education Fieldwork and Expeditions

£ 197k

2,000 F OUR • 67 field research projects

and expeditions across the

D ELEGATES EDITORS world were awarded a total of £197,000. • 2,000 delegates attended • Four new journal editors 460 sessions at the Annual appointed. • Two new funds contributing International Conference. to the Geographical Fieldwork Grants. Education

1 5,000 + 4 00

ATTENDEES ENTRIES • Over 400 people attended 1 00 the Explore and Explore South • 15,000 entries to the Young P ROFILES Geographer of the Year competition. West fieldwork and expedition planning events. • 100 career profiles produced, showing the breadth of careers open to geography students.

• 139 Geography Teacher Training Scholars were recruited. 16/17

Policy and professional Public Engagement and Collections

CGeog

62 1.5M • Over 1.5 million images ACCREDITATIONS

of Collections items digitised. • 62 newly accredited RGS-IBG Chartered Geographers.

3 0

ST UDIES • 30 impact case studies published on the RGS-IBG website. Enterprises and fundraising

£143K + 1 ,500 1 , 200 INVESTED

SUBMISSIONS • £143,000 invested during

2019 in upgrading projection ITEMS • The Earth Photo competition equipment in the Ondaatje attracted 1,200 submissions. • Over 1,500 items, including Theatre and Education Centre. photographs, archival material and

• The Royal Geographical film donated to the Society as part Society Quiz Book was listed of the John Noel archive. in the top ten travel-related puzzle books of 2019. 18/19 4 Growing our reputation Building on tradition, independence and contemporary relevance

Objective Build further the The Society is the UK’s learned society for geography, and the breadth and depth Society’s strong profile, reputation of activities in 2019 maintained its reputation for innovation. The Society also and presence, nationally and internationally, reinforcing and continued to be a trusted delivery partner, sought out by other organisations, publicising its role as a leader with several existing partnerships enhanced and improved during the course among learned societies and of the year. a partner of choice. Context The Society is well 4.1 Developing and consolidating 4.2 Enhancing our presence, established and highly respected, bilateral relationships online and across the UK UK-wide and internationally. It has a well-developed international The Society has long standing, close working Work progressed throughout 2019 on reach in selected activities and an relationships with partner bodies and improvements to the Society’s website, international membership in more organisations across the geographical and including the development of online joining. than 100 countries. It is regularly consulted as a leading learned broader social sciences communities. During However, a series of delays due to staff society. Geopolitical changes and 2019, the Society invested time in developing changes and the complexity of the work technological developments offer the relationships with the Geographical resulted in the launch of online joining incentives and opportunities to Association (GA), the Royal Scottish being postponed to 2020. establish a stronger presence, and Geographical Society (RSGS) and the partnerships with sister societies, In the autumn, the Society launched an across the UK and internationally, Scottish Association of Geography Teachers app for teachers using smartphones and for mutual benefit and that of (SAGT) in order to present a stronger, geography. tablets as an alternative way of accessing joint voice on shared issues. our teaching resources and to enable The Society also sustained positive notifications about new resources and relationships with the four examining boards events to be sent directly to teachers. offering GCSE and A Level geography, with A review of the Society’s social media the Field Studies Council and the Council presence recommended that the Society of British Geography. should have a well curated and active Based on the success of the previous Instagram account and share more content agreement, in 2019 the Society entered from across the geographical community, into a new, two year strategic partnership not just Society generated content. These with the AGI. changes will be implemented in early 2020. The quality of the recordings of Monday 4.3 Extending the international The Society further developed its night lectures and other events held in dimension of current activities relationship with the Bowers Museum, the Ondaatje Theatre was significantly The Society remains the UK California, with the signing of a improved with the upgrade of the representative body for the International commercial agreement for a major theatre’s cameras and projectors. Geographical Union (IGU) and the loan of iconic artefacts relating to the Recordings of lectures are now being European Association for Geographical exploration of Africa from the Society’s uploaded within four days, meaning Societies (EUGEO), supporting Collections, with the exhibition to open that Fellows and members who are their activities. in autumn of 2021. unable to attend in person can enjoy In August, the Society welcomed In addition, the Society entered into a broadcast quality experience. a delegation from the Geographical an agreement with the United Arab To complement the events programme Society of China to the Annual Emirates National Archive to supply organised by the Society’s regional International Conference. The map, archive and image content from committees, a new member plus guest delegation led four sessions on the Society’s Middle Eastern collection lecture featuring speakers from the urban development, land use change under licence. Monday night lecture series was piloted and geospatial techniques. During The Society's scholarly journals have a during 2019 in Manchester. The pilot the year, the Director also met with particular focus on developing authors successfully demonstrated demand representatives from the Canadian, and audiences from overseas. among Fellows and members and will Russian and US geographical societies. be continued in Manchester as well as The Hong Kong branch of the Society being rolled out to Nottingham. continued its lively and well supported programme of events, with over 80 talks, field visits and dinners during 2019. In Singapore, the regional committee registered successfully with the authorities, enabling the committee to continue its popular programme of monthly events. 20/21 5 Enhancing our membership An important source of expertise, funding and enthusiasm

Objective Reach and engage Membership is fundamental to the Society and the breadth of the membership new supporters and retain the is a core strength of the organisation. Every Fellow and member contributes to enthusiasm and expertise of existing Fellows and members, across the the Society’s influence and every subscription supports the Society’s charitable UK and beyond, ensuring a strong work in championing geography, inspiring the next generation and disseminating and growing membership of both geographical knowledge. professionals and enthusiasts who support our activities. 5.1 Continuing to improve engagement During 2019 the Society was able to offer Context The Society benefits and communication with members several unique opportunities to Fellows from its Fellows’ and members’ knowledge, enthusiasm, time, As part of a wider realignment of posts and members. In November, Fellows and contacts, and their subscriptions within the Communications team, the post members were invited to take part in an which provide around a quarter of of Membership Communications Officer intergenerational debate on sustainability the Society’s gross income. The Society especially values its many was created. This post has responsibility issues hosted in the House of Lords. And loyal Fellows who are long term for ensuring that the Society understands in the run up to the general election, the supporters. To continue to develop as much about our members and their Society hosted a recording of BBC Radio 4’s sustainably, the continuing high retention and good recruitment of needs as possible, as well as how best The World Tonight programme which featured Fellows and members is essential. to communicate with them. In 2019, this a discussion about climate change with included articulating better the benefits panellists from each of the major parties. of Fellowship for professional geographers Fellows and members were invited to attend and working with partners to reach potential the recording and submit questions to new Fellows. the panellists. Improvements were made to the Society pages of Geographical magazine, which is published under contract by Syon Publishing. While Syon retains editorial control over the magazine’s content, the Society has an excellent relationship with the editorial team and has worked closely with them to reduce the incidence of errors and increase the proportion of articles related to Society activities.

Fellows and members taking part in a sustainability debate in the House of Lords © Roger Harris

5.2 Enhancing recruitment and retention Retention rates remained high during 2019, at 85% overall and 92% for Fellowship. The Geography Teacher Training Scholarship scheme provided Postgraduate Fellowship for 139 Scholars, as well as membership of the Geographical Association. School Membership remained steady at 500. Professional accreditation charges were reviewed during the year, leading to the first increase in the fees charged since the introduction of CGeog over 15 years ago. Despite this, the fastest growing section of our membership is geographers joining as Fellows to gain accreditation and professional recognition. 5.3 Learning more about our members and their engagement with the Society Due to staff changes in the Communications team, the planned membership survey did not take place during 2019 and was rescheduled for early 2020. 22/23 6 Securing the future As one of the world’s largest and most active scholarly geographical societies

Objective Enable a robust future 2019 marked the mid-point in the Society’s current strategic period, and a review for the Society, by increasing of activity against the strategic plan showed the Society to be making good income sustainably, using technology effectively, and progress against its objectives. The focus on developing the Society’s role as a enhancing staff capabilities. professional body continued to be a priority without compromising the breadth of Context The Society is an scope and broad balance of its charitable activities. During the year, the Society independent body and, like other also continued to invest in staff training and development. learned and professional societies, receives no core government The Society ended 2019 with a small The Society renewed its Corporate Business funding. Annual income has more than doubled in real terms since operating surplus on the General Fund. This Member agreement with Silversea for 1996, and substantial external was made possible by the continuance of a further three year contract providing donations have been attracted. key income streams including membership enrichment resources for passengers based The current UK setting places greater uncertainty on growing subscriptions, Enterprise Company net on its historic Collections. And in early autumn, income over 2017-2021.We revenues and charitable operations. The a Fundraising Executive was appointed to are thus aiming for modest, financial review (pages 24/25) sets out how support the Society’s fundraising efforts and sustainable growth in core funding from subscriptions, enterprise, the Society generated its income and how its to steward our Corporate Benefactors. expenditure supported its charitable activities. operations, and corporate support; A promotional evening, with a focus on plus fundraising success for new projects and the endowment. The Society became entitled to an endowment the updated audio visual equipment in the of £5.58m from the estate of Esmond Ondaatje Theatre, was held in November Bradley Martin, to be used, from 2020 to showcase Lowther Lodge to new and onwards for an award. prospective hirers. Initial indications were that the event successfully generated During 2019 there were several targeted new business. fundraising efforts, including a successful bid to the Flotilla Foundation for £80,000 to In 2019, the Society’s contract with the develop and extend the educational resources human resources consultancy, HRSP, paid linked to the Weddell Sea Expedition in 2020. dividends as work was progressed in several And in December, the Department for areas including an improved induction Education confirmed an award of £52,000 for process for new staff, a new staff handbook, a geography and core maths project as part and the introduction of new contracts for new of the Advanced Maths Support Programme. starters. HRSP also supported members of staff with their recruitment needs. All statutory reporting requirements were met. The Society thanks everyone who has generously donated in support of our work.

Corporate Benefactors in 2019 Corporate Business Member The Society’s Grants Programme

is generously supported by Environmental Resources Management Silversea engaged the Society to provide 20th IGC Fund (ERM) supported the Society’s core work with informative materials on their expedition 30th IGC Fund professional audiences, specifically to enhance cruise ships. Alasdair Macdonald teachers’ fieldwork leadership skills and to enable Albert Reckitt Award a regional programme of cross sector networking John and Anne Alexander and professional development. Memorial Award Fund Esri UK supported the Society’s Geography Edinburgh Trust Ambassador programme and brought GIS Frederick Soddy Award Fund expertise to it and to the training of teachers in Geographical Club the classroom use of GIS. Ambassadors inspired Henrietta Hutton Memorial Fund more than 30,000 young people in 2019 with Hong Kong branch geography and GIS. HR Mill Trust Fund

The Jeremy Willson Charitable Trust Jaguar Land Rover supported our core John Pilkington expedition and fieldwork training activities, Monica Cole Bequest including the loan of a Land Rover Discovery Paul and Mary Slawson to facilitate UK-wide visits, and the Land Rover Neil Thomas Proto Bursary to support one major field expedition Neville Shulman, CBE during the year. Ralph Brown Memorial Fund Ordnance Survey supported the Society’s work Ray Y Gildea Jr Award to advance geospatial understanding by raising Rio Tinto awareness of career opportunities, engaging with SUN Institute Environment & Economics professional communities and promoting The Late Sultan of Oman understanding in policy and government. Violet Cressy-Marcks Fisher Trust Fund

Walters Kundert Charitable Trust Rolex supported our core work with and through the Society’s large, unique and iconic collections of Other donors during 2019 maps, photographs, books, documents and objects, Anonymous donors helping to underpin public access, conservation Department for Education and new uses for, and users of, the Collections. Estate of Eric Brown Sir Ranulph Fiennes OBE Trailfinders supported the Society’s core work Estate of Jennifer Fry with the public, to inspire and promote the wider Flotilla Foundation / Weddell Sea Expedition relevance and enjoyment of geography and to Dr and Mrs David Giles foster a greater understanding of our world. This Department for International Development builds on a shared common interest in informed The Nuffield Foundation travel. SUN Institute Environment & Economics

24/25

Financial review

The summarised financial statements General Fund expenditure as a whole scheme as calculated annually for FRS102. for 2019 on the following page provide increased in 2019 by 2%. 2019 total costs, at This liability remained at £Nil (2018: £Nil). an overview of the Society’s balance £5.37m, were slightly below 2018 (£5.47m). The Society’s actual, legal, obligation to The Society’s expenditure on charitable funding the scheme is determined by the sheet assets, liabilities and funds, activities reduced in 2019 by £0.05m, down triennial actuarial valuation, the last one together with its income and expenditure 1% on 2018, to £4.34m. Of the total, 6% was being at June 2017. The Society’s calculated by activity. from restricted (donated project and grants) Free Reserves at 31 December 2019 were In 2019, the Society’s annual operating funds, with almost all the remainder from the £2.94m (2018: £2.97m). result on the General Fund, after transfers General Fund. Expenditure across the main between funds, but before investment areas of charitable activity showed some and pension valuations gains/losses was a year on year variations, resulting largely from surplus of £0.07m (2018: £0.31m). This was differing levels of conference and project Independent auditor’s statement to the on the total General Fund income of £4.86m activity, with spend on Research and Higher Trustees of the Royal Geographical Society (2018: £5.03m) and was below the budget Education up and on Policy and Public (with the Institute of British Geographers) We have examined the summarised financial statements for the year. The total Society income was up Engagement down, the latter due to reduced project expenditure on the Discovering of the Royal Geographical Society (with the Institute of 79.2% at £11.06m (2018: up 10% to £6.17m) British Geographers) for the year ended 31 December largely owing to donations and legacy income Britain project. Expenditure on Education 2019 set out on page 25. and Outdoor Learning, Information Services being higher in 2019 (£5.84m) than in 2018 Respective responsibilities of the Trustees (£0.84m) as a result of endowments from the and Resources, and Membership Services and the auditor The trustees are responsible for estate of Esmond Bradley Martin totalling remained similar to 2018. The second pie preparing the summarised financial statements. £5.58m. The expenditure on charitable chart shows expenditure by activity (with the Our responsibility is to report to you our opinion on the activities hardly changed at £4.34m effects of depreciation removed). consistency of the summarised financial statements with the full annual financial statements and the Trustees’ (2018: £4.39m), which equates to 81% There was no concerted fundraising work Annual Report. of total expenditure. in 2019. Significant progress was made We also read the other information contained in the The broad patterns of other income and in developing fundraising objectives summarised Annual Report and consider the implications expenditure in the General Fund remained and strategy and a new Development and for our report if we become aware of any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the similar in 2019 to 2018. Gross income, Fundraising Executive was appointed in the latter part of the year. During the year the summarised financial statements. The other information expenditure and profit in RGS Enterprises in comprises only the Annual Report. Society became entitled to two endowments the year were all down approximately 10% We conducted our work in accordance with our from the estate of Esmond Bradley Martin, on 2018 at £1.72m (2018: £1.92m), £0.75m engagement letter dated 19 December 2018. being the Esmond B Martin Royal (2018: £0.82m) and £0.98m (2018: £1.10m), Opinion In our opinion the summarised financial respectively. Membership income in 2019 Geographical Society Prize Fund ($7.00m) statements are consistent with the full annual financial fell by £0.04m to £1.68m and generated and the Pachyderm Journal Fund ($0.40m). statements and the Trustees’ Annual Report of Royal £0.98m net after costs of membership Geographical Society (with the Institute of British The summary consolidated balance sheet Geographers) for the year ended 31 December 2019. services. Income from charitable activities shows net assets increasing by £6.70m RSM UK Audit LLP Statutory Auditor, April 2020. increased by £0.01m to £1.11m. Proportional (2018: £0.01m), excluding the change in The Pinnacle, 170 Midsummer Boulevard, income is summarised in the first pie chart. the liability of the defined benefit pension Milton Keynes, Bucks, MK9 1BP ENDOWMENT RESTRICTED DESIGNATED DESIGNATED GENERAL TOTALS 3 1 5 15 Research & Other 31.12.2019 Consolidated New Initiatives 13 Balance Sheet £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000 £’000

Fixed assets • 4,155 • 139 1,388 5,682

Investments • 4,635 2,386 1,912 3,412 12,345 10

Current assets 5,581 40 • • 3,432 9,053

Current liabilities • • • • -1,301 -1,301 53 Inter-fund accounts • 542 433 2,259 -3,234 •

Net assets 5,581 9,372 2,819 4,310 3,697 25,779 £11.06m income by source 2018: £6.17m Funds balances 31.12.19 5,581 9,372 2,819 4,310 3,697 25,779 • 15% Membership subscriptions Donations, grants, appeals and endowments Funds balances 31.12.18 • 8,938 2,546 4,129 3,465 19,078 • 53% • 10% Income generated by charitable activities 2019 net Funds movement 5,581 434 273 181 232 6,701 • 13% RGS Enterprises turnover • 5% Investment income • 3% Corporate supporters Consolidated Statement • 1% Tenants of Financial Activities • 0% Services provided Incoming resources 5,581 364 85 168 4,860 11,058 (see right for analysis by sources) 8 Resources expended • -299 -30 -27 -5,011 -5,367 16 (see right for analysis by activity) 15 Net investment gain 434 236 174 264 1,108 • 9 Surplus before transfers 5,581 499 291 315 113 6,799

12 Transfers between funds • -65 -18 -134 217 • 11

Surplus after transfers 5,581 434 273 181 330 6,799

8 FRS102 actuarial gain -98 -98 21 • • • • on pension scheme 5,581 434 273 181 232 6,701 £5.18m expenditure by activity Excluding depreciation of £0.19m 2018: £5.13m (£0.34m) • 16% Education, expeditions, fieldwork, grants • 9% Engaging wider audiences • 11% Information services & resources • 8% Policy, communications, media • 21% Research, higher education, grants • 12% Membership services • 1 5% RGS Enterprises costs • 8% Other, including governance 26/27

Governance

The Society is governed by its The Council met, as usual, three Joanna Coles Staff Council which largely comprises times in 2019 and attendance Professor Klaus Dodds The Director reports to the Fellows elected from and by the averaged 76% across all three Caitlin Hafferty Council and has responsibility for Fellowship. They are drawn from meetings. The Executive Dr Vanessa Lawrence CB coordinating the Society’s strategy the main areas of activity of the Committee, which comprises Dr Melanie Norman and running the Society and its Society. There are 21 elected the senior Trustees, met in the Chris Speight activities, assisted by a senior team Council members and up to four intervening periods as the Hugh Thomson of five departmental heads and a further Council members may be need arose. Professor Jamie Woodward staff that numbered 52 in December co-opted, including a postgraduate 2019. All staff members are based The following Council members The following also served as Council representative, to bring further at the Society’s headquarters in were in office at the end of 2019 Members until June 2019: breadth, expertise and contact Kensington, London. networks. President Rt Hon Baroness Lynda Chalker Felicity Aston MBE In line with recommendations of Wallasey Professor Paul Milbourne of good practice by the Charity Professor Chris Philo Immediate Past President Commission, the Council identifies David Pyle Nicholas Crane the skills and expertise gaps that Professor Adrian Smith would be most helpful to fill in the Vice Presidents Laura Stone elections to the Council each June. David Atkinson Nina Willment Fellows standing for election are (Education) The Council is advised by specialist encouraged to state how they met Professor Alison Blunt committees for Education; those identified gaps. However, (Research and Higher Education) this approach does not preclude Expeditions and Fieldwork; Professor Katie Willis any Fellow standing for election Finance; and Research and Higher (Expeditions and Fieldwork) to positions relevant to their Education. Attendance at these background. The Council is also Honorary Treasurer committee meetings averaged cognisant of the value of diversity, Mark Humphreys 70% across the year. The Finance while seeking to attract the most Committee met four times, as usual, appropriately qualified people to Chair of Annual Conference 2019 and comprises a core membership guide the Society’s governance. Professor Hester Parr of accounting, financial, legal and

Honorary Secretaries investment professionals. The other Council positions are elected for committees met twice, as usual, a single term of three years at Grace Healy (Education) to give advice on their areas of the Annual General Meeting, expertise. In addition, advice was which includes a postal vote of Robert Lucas provided by the Regions Committee, the Fellowship. Elected Council (Expeditions and Fieldwork) a small number of specialist sub- members also serve on the Dr Nicola Thomas committees, including one for appropriate Committee of Council (Research and Higher Education) investments and, where appropriate, to provide liaison between the individual professional advisors. two levels. Ordinary Members of Council RGS Enterprises Limited, a wholly Claire Allen owned subsidiary of the Society, is Robin Ashcroft governed by its Enterprise Board. Professor Michael Bradshaw Professor Joanna Bullard Contact details Current regional coordinators

Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) Public Engagement Chair of the Regions Singapore 1 Kensington Gore and Communications Chris Speight Oliver Worsley London SW7 2AR Caitlin Watson E [email protected] E [email protected]

T +44 (0)20 7591 3000 E [email protected] Cheshire and North Wales Hong Kong F +44 (0)20 7591 3001 Communications Christina Lees-Jones Rupert McCowan E [email protected] E [email protected] E [email protected] E [email protected] W www.rgs.org E [email protected] W rgshk.org.hk Programmes East of England Director and Secretary E [email protected] Clare Brown Professor Joe Smith Public engagement projects E [email protected] E [email protected] E [email protected] Development Midlands

E [email protected] Martin Haslett Research and Higher Education Policy E [email protected] Dr Catherine Souch E [email protected] E [email protected] North Devon Monday night lectures Annual Conference Annemarie Shillito E [email protected] E [email protected] E [email protected]

Education and Outdoor Learning Chartered Geographer Northern Ireland Steve Brace E [email protected] Oliver Dunnett E [email protected] Research Groups and general E [email protected] Ambassadors programme E [email protected] E [email protected] Academic publications North West Education general E [email protected] Tim Foster E [email protected] Grants (all types) E [email protected]

Geography Outdoors E [email protected] South E [email protected] Henry Hogger and David Lovell Resources and Enterprise Finance and Services E [email protected] Alasdair Macleod Andrew Munro E [email protected] South West E [email protected] Enterprise Company Derry Corey Membership Office E [email protected] E [email protected] E [email protected] Foyle Reading Room Facilities West of England and South Wales E [email protected] E [email protected] Jacki Hill-Murphy Picture Library E [email protected] E [email protected] Venue Hire Yorkshire and North East E [email protected] Professor David McEvoy

E [email protected]

28/29 Looking ahead Professor Joe Smith

Living in a period of considerable On a more positive note, in the second enhance our venue hire offer. All of political and economic uncertainty poses half of 2020, I will be starting to work with this will give us a building that will very real challenges to the Society. We the Society’s trustees and a wide body serve our needs better, tell a stronger are an international organisation with of stakeholders to develop our strategic story for geography, and make us more members in over 100 countries and plan for a new context. How can we financially secure for the long term. millions of people engage with our work ensure that we make the most of the However it will take investment, hence each year. However all of our income opportunities in front of us, and meet during 2020 we will be laying the sources are discretionary, meaning our responsibilities to the full? And how foundations of a substantial fundraising we must continue to make our case will we keep making a real difference? initiative that will enable us to fulfil convincingly, whether to Fellows and There will be opportunities for all our our ambitions. members, individual and insitutional, Fellows and members to contribute to As a membership organisation, we or commercial partners. the strategic planning process, but a need to continue to value our Fellows couple of things are clear to me already. It is already clear there will be significant and members, ensuring that everyone disruption to the work of the Society In order to make Lowther Lodge a feels welcome. To this end, in 2020 during 2020, as a result of the COVID-19 sustainable home for geography and we will be revisiting how we present outbreak that occurred as this Annual geographers, we need to undertake our many activities outside of London Review was being written. The Society significant remedial works. Much of this, and how we articulate the benefits of was quick to move to a working from including renewal of the south façade Fellowship to professional geographers. home approach with all staff operating of the building and improvements One very important way to serve remotely the day following the to staff working conditions, is already Fellows and members better, and to Government’s advice to work from scheduled. However, we have the demonstrate the value of the Society home where possible. Many, if not all, opportunity to do much more than and of geography more widely, of the Society’s income streams will be simply fix the problems. is through the media. We will be affected by the outbreak and we are I want to improve accessibility, both expanding our work with media reworking our plans for the coming year physically and metaphorically, to partners in the year ahead, but you to ensure we mitigate the financial the building. We have a chance to will also start to see the benefits of impact at the same time as we deliver dramatically reduce running costs and investment and redesign in terms of against the 2017-2021 strategy in the to make it a model building of its kind our own communications equipment most appropriate way, given the current in terms of environmental sustainability. and team since the world needs to COVID-19 control measures. Further I want to enable greater engagement hear geographical ideas and debates information can be found in the full with contemporary geography and now more than ever. financial statements.

Recognising excellence in 2019

The Society’s Medals and Awards have Cherry Kearton Medal & Award Area Prize recognised excellence in the breadth Tacita Dean Dr Simon Dixon ‘ for artwork that encourages reflection ‘f or the best article in the journal of geographical research, practice and on changing landscapes’ by a new researcher’ public promotion since the foundation Fordham Award of the Society in 1830. Professor Mark Birkin Rebecca Solnit ‘ for pioneering work on the development ‘ for distinguished contributions The two Royal Medals (The Founder’s and application of urban analytics’ to the field of cartobibliography’

and Patron’s Medals) are among the Geographical Award highest international accolades. They Professor Frank Tanser Mark Evans – Outward Bound Oman are awarded for ‘the encouragement ‘ for research that has shaped national ‘ for encouraging young people from all health policies in developing countries’ walks of life to explore the Middle East’ and promotion of geographical science and discovery’. Cuthbert Peek Award Award Paul Knight – Missing Maps Gregory Pearson

‘ for advancing geographical knowledge ‘ for his A Level Independent Investigation’

through mapping in remote areas, with In 2019 Her Majesty the Queen approved Geography in Government Award the application of contemporary methods’ the award of the Royal Medals as follows The Geography Spatial Analysts Team Founder’s Medal Gill Memorial Award at the Office for National Statistics Professor Trevor Barnes Dr Gemma Catney ‘ for work undertaken for the ‘ for outstanding early career research United Nations World Data Forum ‘ for sustained excellence and pioneering in human geography’ on Sustainable Development Goals’ developments in the field of economic geography ’

Ordnance Survey Awards (two awards) Honorary Fellowship Patron’s Medal Jennifer Monk Alexander Maitland Dame Fiona Reynolds Rob Chambers Sir David Hempleman-Adams ‘ for her contribution to environmental ‘ for excellence in geography education Carol Beckwith protection, conservation and the preservation at secondary level’ Angela Fisher

of the British landscape’ ‘ in recognition of outstanding support Taylor & Francis Award for the Society and Geography’ Dr Jennifer Hill The following awards were presented at ‘ for sustained contributions to teaching the Society’s medals and awards ceremony The Society further recognised excellence through and learning in higher education’ the Young Geographer of the Year Awards, the Rex Victoria Medal Walford Award to recognise newly qualified teachers, Professor David Thomas Dervla Murphy and the Excellence Awards made to pupils who ‘ for world leading research into dryland achieved the highest marks in GCSE, A Level and ‘ for the popularisation of geography environments and societies’ International Baccalaureate examinations in Geography. through travel literature’ Busk Medal Dr Ayona Datta Alfred Steers Dissertation Prize ‘ for contribution to the understanding Fumika Azuma ‘ for the undergraduate geography of smart cities through fieldwork’ dissertation judged to be the best in 2018’

This report summarises the Society’s charitable Acknowledgements activities and finances in 2019 in pursuit of its Front cover objective to ‘advance geographical science’. Journey of a Lifetime 2019 recipient Redzi Bernard © Redzi Bernard The Society’s work is guided by its current Page 1 Rt Hon Baroness Lynda Chalker of Wallasey, RGS-IBG President © Fabio Burrelli strategy and benefits a wide range of professional Page 3 and public audiences. The Society is a vibrant Professor Joe Smith, RGS-IBG Director © RGS-IBG organisation that seeks to balance its stakeholders Page 14 / 15 and activities for the benefit of all our users and Research and Higher Education Delegates discussing the 2019 Annual International Conference programme © Panel 8 Photography of geography. The full annual accounts and report The Society’s journals stand at the 2019 Annual International Conference © Panel 8 Photography can be found on our website and that of the Fieldwork and Expeditions Charity Commission. 2019 Geographical Club Award recipient Kwame Awuah carrying out fieldwork in South Africa © Kwame Awuah Explore 2019 delegates © RGS-IBG If you would like to receive a copy of this report in Education One of 100 career profiles on our website: GIS Officer Heather Bell © Heather Bell PDF so that it can be read in larger print or using 2019 Young Geographers of the Year © Panel 8 Photography Adobe Reader software, please visit Page 16 / 17 Policy and professional Taking notes © Panel 8 Photography W www.rgs.org/annualreview Newly accredited Chartered Geographer James Riley © James Riley Public Engagement and Collections The Wiley Digital Archives interface © Panel 8 Photography The Landfill Midwife © Elisabetta Zavoli Registered Charity 208791 Enterprises and fundraising Ondaatje Theatre projection booth © RGS-IBG Dzongpen of Gyantse by JB Noel 1924 © RGS-IBG

Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) 1 Kensington Gore London SW7 2AR

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