I joined the University of Strathclyde as a Research Associate on the NIHR funded research project Maximising Individual Placement and Support beyond Severe Mental Illness. My research interests include the relationship between the third sector and the state, with a particular interest in the role of intermediary bodies in representing third sector interests in governance networks (such as Community Planning Partnerships). I am also interested in the experiences and rights of disabled people in accessing public services.

My PhD, completed at the University of Glasgow in June 2020, explored the impact of the third sector’s involvement in local governance networks. I have spent most of my working life in the third sector in a variety of roles, from community worker to chief executive. I’ve worked with a number of different communities including disabled people, immigrants and refugees, LGBT+ communities, women and environmental groups.

I am active in networks that bring together academics and third sector practitioners.  I am currently the co-chair of the Voluntary Sector Studies Network and an active member of Scotland’s Third Sector Research Forum.  

Has expertise in:

Third sector-state relations

Third sector intermediary bodies

Co-production

Governance networks

Disabled people’s access to services

Employment services

Taught Public Policy as a Graduate Teaching Associate at the Univerity of Glasgow.

Teaching interests include:

Third sector relationship with the state

Third sector intermediary bodies

Participatory democracy and governance networks