The role of research is to provide evidence that can provide guidance to policies and programmes. For policies to the maximum impact in addressing the response to children affected by HIV and AIDS, they need to be underpinned by an understanding of the root causes of children's vulnerability. The quality and credibility of research is key. However the ability to communicate clearly about the research is also crucial. There is a more limited research capacity in many developing countries The research capacity of local and national institutions within the South should be strengthened in order to support local and national policy efforts. This will help to ensure that research is seen as more credible and relevant.

The Young Carers Study is a collaboration between Oxford University, NGOs, and the South African Government. Government dissemination has been established with the SA National Department of Social Development and the South Africa Department of Health, and the study has an established advisory role to the South African National Action Committee for Children Affected by AIDS. The findings of the study have direct and immediate relevance for designing targeted interventions for these vulnerable children.

The research group have launched a new  two-year study, the first major study to be carried out into child carers of AIDS sick adults, started earlier this year. Researchers are interviewing 6,000 children and adolescents – caring for adults with AIDS, caring for adults sick with other diseases, and those living with healthy adults. They will also interview 1,500 adults – parents or guardians who live with the children. Their work is centred on three cities and three rural areas in three South African provinces. Visit the Young Carers website.

ODI is involved in a number of research projects contributing to the learning and knowledge around various aspects of social protection. These include projects examining linkages between social protection and agricultural growth, exploring the role of cash transfers in social protection and examining their effectiveness in emergencies.

Population Council develops and evaluates innovative strategies to support children affected or orphaned by HIV and AIDS. One example of research  being undertaken is The Caregiver Project which addresses the need for increased pediatric testing and early diagnosis in South Africa. 
   
International Treatment Preparedness Coalition (ITPC)
Failing Women, Failing Children: HIV, Vertical Transmission and Women’s Health. Research conducted for Missing the Target 7 by civil society activists on-the-ground in six countries (Argentina, Cambodia, Moldova, Morocco, Uganda, and Zimbabwe) shows that efforts to prevent vertical transmission are failing to reach the very group it was designed for—HIV-positive pregnant women.