I have a nursing qualification (SRN, 1980) and a social work qualification (CQSW, 1985). I had 18 years practice experience in social work until 2003, the latter 10 of which I managed statutory social work services for adults, in England. I've held held many roles in Third Sector governance.  Since joining Higher Education in 2003, my research interests lie in the experiences of ageing in marginalised communities, the majority of which is applied and co-produced with people with lived experience. Prior to joining Strathclyde in 2019, I was Professor of Social Care at Middlesex University, London where I worked for 11 years.

My doctorate studies were in educational gerontology exploring the role of lifelong learning in care services. I am an activist for LGBTQI+ communities and founder member of the international LGBTQI social work network. In relation to learning and teaching I have over 170 publications including 20 key books covering a range of topics on leadership, management, organisational development, feminism, sexual and gender identities, values and ethics, gerontology and social work supervision. I have also published widely in other areas such as the use of the arts in professional education, parenting, ageing mental health and wellbeing. 

I was Head of Department for Social Work and Social Policy Jan 2020-Dec 2023 (role-share).  I am the lead for social care in Health and Social Care Futures since January 2025.

I have been involved in funded research and knowledge exchange by NIHR SSCR; DHSC England; British Academy; IASSW; Comic Relief; EU Cost Action; EU Erasmus Plus, Chief Scientist Office NHS Scotland, Skills for Care, UNITE and ESRC IAA.