Speaking of Research: The SCDTP Podcast

How can humanitarian aid and protection services better prevent violence against women and girls during times of crisis and forced displacement?

And what happens when a doctoral researcher collaborates with local grassroots organisations to ground sensitive research in local context and decolonial practice?

In the sixth episode of "In Dialogue with Stakeholders", a special series of Speaking of Research presented by Catherine McDonald, we bring researchers together with the people and organisations who can help shape their research and show how it can have impact in the real world.

Joining Catherine is SCDTP doctoral researcher Sixtus Onyekwere, whose mixed-methods research examines how NGOs deliver interventions targeting gender-based violence among internally displaced persons and refugees in Nigeria during emergency shocks like COVID-19, and Deborah Shedrach from the Grassroots Researchers Association, a Nigerian-based non-profit focusing on conflict resolution and evidence-based research.

Together, Sixtus and Deborah explore the critical role of local ‘foot soldiers’ in building trust, navigating ethical complexities, and collecting vital field data across displaced communities. They discuss how crisis conditions and economic disruptions compound vulnerabilities to gender-based violence, the sharp differences in reported experiences between camp and host settings, and the ongoing challenge of securing government involvement and legal accountability for perpetrators.

Their conversation demonstrates the value of embedded stakeholder partnerships: providing the empirical evidence needed by NGOs and decision-makers to strengthen humanitarian protection and ensure aid responses are better prepared for future shocks.

"In Dialogue with Stakeholders" captures these conversations to show how researchers and stakeholders can work together from the outset, bringing different expertise and perspectives to research and helping shape its potential for impact beyond academia.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter and Producer: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guests: Sixtus Onyekwere, South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership; Deborah Shedrach, Grassroots Researchers Association, Nigeria

Video and Audio Editor: Alex Canner, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can theatre create a sense of belonging without relying on words?

In the fifth episode of “In Dialogue with Stakeholders”, a special series of Speaking of Research presented by Catherine McDonald, we explore what happens when research and creative practice come together to ask how cultural experiences can be made more inclusive for people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities.

Joining Catherine is SCDTP doctoral researcher Elspeth Clark from the University of Southampton whose PhD explores whether meaningful activity can foster belonging for students with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities, and Ellie Griffiths, Artistic Director of Oily Cart Theatre, a company pioneering sensory theatre.

Their collaboration brings together occupational therapy research and creative practice, exploring how movement, sound, lighting, smell and other sensory experiences can create connection and shared meaning without relying on conventional forms of communication.

They discuss Elspeth’s researcher residency at Oily Cart Theatre, their work on Making Sideways and the development of Sideways, an at-home sensory theatre experience designed for families to experience together.

Elspeth and Ellie reflect on what research and practice can learn from one another, and how involving stakeholders can challenge assumptions, strengthen research and help turn ideas into practice. Their conversation highlights how greater attention to non-verbal communication could help cultural, educational and research spaces include people whose voices and participation have traditionally been overlooked.

“In Dialogue with Stakeholders” captures these conversations to show how researchers and stakeholders can work together from the outset, bringing different expertise and perspectives to research and helping shape its potential for impact beyond academia.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter and Producer: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guests: Elspeth Clark, South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership; Ellie Griffiths, Oily Cart Theatre

Video and Audio Editor: Alex Canner, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

What would health and social care look like if the people using those services helped shape how they work?

And what happens when a practising GP is involved in research from the outset, bringing clinical expertise and frontline experience to help shape its direction and potential impact?

In the fourth episode of “In Dialogue with Stakeholders”, a special series of Speaking of Research presented by Catherine McDonald, we bring researchers together with the people who can help shape their research and explore how collaboration can turn research into impact in the real world.

Joining Catherine is SCDTP doctoral researcher Katie Munday from the University of Portsmouth whose participatory research explores the health and social care experiences of transgender autistic adults, and Alex Robertson, a practising GP, who brings frontline clinical experience to the research and its potential application in healthcare.

Katie’s research works alongside trans autistic adult co-researchers with experience in community work, activism and research. The project focuses on experiences of accessing talking therapies in the NHS and private sector, examining barriers including difficult systems, primary care gatekeeping, misgendering, stereotyping and disbelief.

Together, Katie and Alex explore what research can learn from clinical practice – and what practitioners can learn from research rooted in lived experience. Their conversation considers how this collaboration can help identify practical changes, from better clinician education to more inclusive systems for recording names and pronouns.

At its heart, this episode demonstrates the value of involving stakeholders early in the research process: bringing a practising GP into the conversation not simply to respond to research findings, but to help shape questions, outcomes and the potential for change from the outset.

“In Dialogue with Stakeholders” captures these conversations to show how researchers and stakeholders can work together to create research with impact beyond academia.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter and Producer: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Katie Munday, University of Portsmouth and Alex Robertson, Practising GP

Video and Audio Editor: Alex Canner, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do we make sure AI helps children learn rather than simply giving them the answers?

And what happens when a researcher exploring the future of AI in education works directly with a school already putting AI into practice?

In the third episode of “In Dialogue with Stakeholders”, a special series of Speaking of Research presented by Catherine McDonald, we bring researchers together with the people and organisations who can help shape their research and show how it can have impact in the real world.

Joining Catherine is SCDTP doctoral researcher Nick Huxley from the University of Brighton and former primary teacher, whose research explores how AI tutors can support children’s mathematical reasoning, and Deputy Headteacher Hollie Benfield from Knockhall Primary School in Kent, where AI is already being embedded across teaching and school life.

Together, Nick and Hollie bring research and classroom expertise into conversation, exploring how AI can be used safely and effectively in primary education. They discuss teacher training, safeguarding and teaching children about AI, alongside the potential for personalised learning and real-time feedback.

Their conversation also highlights why stakeholder involvement matters. Hollie’s experience of implementing AI in a real school environment raises important questions for Nick’s research, from how AI tutors should respond to children’s developmental needs to how technology can support learning without replacing teachers, peer interaction or hands-on experiences.

“In Dialogue with Stakeholders” captures these conversations to show how researchers and stakeholders can work together from the outset, bringing different expertise and perspectives to research and helping shape its potential for impact beyond academia.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter and Producer: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guests: Nick Huxley, University of Brighton; Hollie Benfield, Knockhall Primary School

Video and Audio Editor: Alex Canner, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can migrant women use digital platforms to share information, build community, and speak back to the system on their own terms?

And what happens when a doctoral researcher adapts her methodology after listening to community feedback, shifting from traditional qualitative methods to exploring lived experiences shared online?

In the second episode of "In Dialogue with Stakeholders", a special series of Speaking of Research presented by Catherine McDonald, we bring researchers together with the people and organisations who can help shape their research and show how it can have impact in the real world.

Joining Catherine is SCDTP doctoral researcher Patricia Ncube, whose research explores how migrant women use YouTube and digital platforms to share knowledge and challenge systemic barriers, and Bev Price, a migrant woman herself, community advocate, and Patricia’s mother.

Together, Patricia and Bev explore how migrant women are taking narrative ownership of their stories away from mainstream media and political discourse. They discuss the shift in research methods from traditional interviews and diaries to digital spaces where women feel safe to share their everyday, lived experiences - from navigating immigration status tied to employment to seeking a quiet, ordinary life.

Their conversation also highlights why stakeholder and community accountability matters. Bev offers insights on moving beyond simply celebrating resilience to questioning the systemic barriers that force migrant women to navigate difficult journeys in the first place.

"In Dialogue with Stakeholders" captures these conversations to show how researchers and stakeholders can work together from the outset, bringing different expertise and perspectives to research and helping shape its potential for impact beyond academia.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter and Producer: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guests: Patricia Ncube, University of Portsmouth; Bev Price, Reverend

Video and Audio Editor: Alex Canner, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to make swimming in the sea, a lake or a river genuinely accessible to people with visual impairments?

And what happens when a researcher brings a stakeholder into the research from the very beginning?

In the first episode of “In Dialogue with Stakeholders”, a special series of Speaking of Research presented by Catherine McDonald, we bring researchers together with the people and organisations who can help shape their research and show how it can have impact in the real world.

Joining Catherine is SCDTP doctoral researcher Sadie Rockliffe from the University of Brighton, who is researching how people with visual impairments experience blue spaces, and blind double Paralympic champion swimmer and open water pioneer, Melanie Barratt, who is also the first blind woman to swim the English Channel.

Together, Sadie and Melanie have co-created Gateway to the Sea, working with partners including British Blind Sport, SwimTrek, Sea Lanes and Red Equipment. The event combined research, lived experience and practical expertise to help people with visual impairments build confidence and independence in the water.

Their conversation offers a glimpse of what can happen when stakeholders are involved early in the research process, challenging assumptions, bringing different expertise to the table and helping shape research that has the potential to make a difference beyond academia.

“In Dialogue with Stakeholders” captures these conversations to show researchers what meaningful collaboration can look like, and how working with stakeholders from the outset can help research have real-world impact.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter and Producer: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guests: Sadie Rockliffe, University of Brighton; Melanie Barratt, Blind double Paralympic champion swimmer

Video and Audio Editor: Alex Canner, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the tenth episode of Series 2 of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Michelize van Heerden, a doctoral researcher from the University of Chichester. Michelize’s research explores the Women’s Sports Leadership Academy (WSLA) - a pioneering residential programme that has supported over 450 women from 78 countries in developing as leaders in sport.

Against a backdrop of ongoing gender imbalance - with only 26% of CEO roles in sport held by women, and a global 3% decrease in female representation on funded sports boards - Michelize examines how WSLA creates a safe, empowering space for growth and connection. Her research draws on the personal stories of participants to disrupt traditional evaluation models, placing lived experience at the centre. Through this work, she aims to understand WSLA's long-term impact on women’s leadership development and the broader transformation of sporting culture.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Michelize van Heerden, University of Chichester

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the ninth episode of Series 2 of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Daniel Griffiths, a doctoral researcher from the University of Southampton. Daniel’s research explores gender euphoria and gender congruence in trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse adults - focusing on the joyful, affirming experiences that accompany living authentically.

Through qualitative studies, Daniel has found that gender euphoria is a distinct and powerful positive emotion, often felt most intensely during the early stages of transition. Over time, it tends to evolve from moments of “explosive joy” into a more settled sense of contentment and alignment. His work aims to shift the narrative around trans lives, moving beyond deficit-focused perspectives to highlight diversity, fulfilment, and wellbeing - and to inform interventions that better support gender congruence and positive mental health.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Daniel Griffiths, University of Southampton

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the eighth episode of Series 2 of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Ramon Almeida, a doctoral researcher at the University of Southampton. A former lawyer in Brazil, Ramon investigates violence against LGBTQ+ people in the years following the 2019 criminalisation of homophobia and transphobia.

Despite this legal milestone, Brazil remains one of the most dangerous countries in the world for LGBTQ+ individuals - with 291 violent deaths recorded in 2024 alone. Through qualitative research in Salvador involving 33 participants, including victims and legal professionals, Ramon uncovers deep inequalities in access to justice and persistent institutional prejudice. His work underscores the need for intersectional approaches and highlights how NGOs often provide more effective support than state systems. By amplifying these voices, Ramon aims to inform international policy and strengthen protections against hate crimes targeting marginalised LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Ramon Almeida, University of Southampton

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the seventh episode of Series 2 of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Miranda Willis, a doctoral researcher from the University of Southampton. Miranda’s research explores the intricate relationships between people, animals, and landscapes in the New Forest National Park, focusing on the centuries-old practice of Commoning - where local residents graze livestock on shared land.

Against the backdrop of modern pressures such as tourism and development, Miranda examines how Commoning contributes to landscape management and biodiversity, while sustaining a deep cultural connection to place. Drawing inspiration from indigenous approaches to land stewardship, her work calls for a shift from ownership to shared care and responsibility. Using a blend of ethnography, visual methods, and mapping, Miranda aims to inform policy and promote coexistence, ensuring that traditions like Commoning continue to support sustainable futures.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Miranda Willis, University of Southampton

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the sixth episode of Series 2 of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Cheryl Williams, a doctoral researcher from the University of Portsmouth. Cheryl’s research explores the use of virtual reality (VR) as an innovative intervention for pain management, investigating how immersive experiences can reduce pain and anxiety in clinical settings.

Often used as a distraction technique during surgery and other hospital procedures, VR offers a promising way to improve patient comfort and wellbeing. With 25% of the global population experiencing chronic pain daily, Cheryl’s work highlights the urgent need for alternative therapeutic approaches and aims to expand VR’s role within NHS services. In the next phase of her research, she plans to test these mechanisms to further understand how VR can transform pain management.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Cheryl Williams, University of Portsmouth

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the fifth episode of Series 2 of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Nikki Smith, a doctoral researcher from the University of Brighton. Nikki’s PhD explores the experiences of autistic young people in mainstream secondary schools across England, with the goal of informing school and government policies to create more inclusive educational environments.

Drawing on her experience as a teacher, Nikki takes a participatory approach, working alongside autistic individuals to shape her research. Five autistic participants helped refine her research question and methods, leading to the creation of an innovative “star profile” tool for data collection. Through her work, Nikki highlights the importance of listening to autistic voices and tailoring support to help every student thrive - an approach inspired by her own classroom experience, where six autistic students excelled with the right support in place.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Nikki Smith, University of Brighton

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the fourth episode of Series 2 of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Barbara Sherriff, a doctoral researcher from the University of Brighton. Barbara’s research examines the relationship between work and mental wellbeing — a pressing issue in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing prevalence of mental health challenges in the workplace.

Focusing on Generation Z employees, Barbara explores how expectations, communication, and organisational culture shape young people’s experiences at work. Through employer interviews, surveys, and focus groups, her study highlights the importance of proactive support systems — from wellness action plans to mental health training — in fostering healthier, more engaged workplaces. Her findings offer practical insights for employers aiming to reduce dissatisfaction and sick leave while building more supportive environments for emerging generations of workers.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Barbara Sheriff, University of Brighton

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the third episode of Series 2 of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Nick Huxley, a doctoral researcher from the University of Brighton. Nick’s research investigates the integration of AI tutor bots in primary education, exploring how these emerging technologies influence learning, engagement, and the role of the teacher.

Amid growing interest in artificial intelligence in classrooms, Nick highlights the lack of evidence surrounding its use with younger learners, and the potential risks of deepening the digital divide. His research emphasises the importance of teacher agency, the cognitive relief AI tools might offer, and the need for thoughtful implementation to ensure technology supports rather than replaces educators. With one third of the world still offline, Nick also raises critical questions about equitable access and the future of AI literacy for teachers.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Nick Huxley, University of Brighton

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the second episode of Series 2 of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Victoria Giacomelli, a doctoral researcher from the University of Portsmouth. Victoria’s research explores health literacy in young children aged four to eight - their ability to understand and use health information to make choices that support their wellbeing.

Addressing a global challenge, Victoria’s work highlights how fostering health literacy early in life can lead to healthier habits and improved outcomes across the lifespan. Drawing on her experiences as both a mother and an educator, she emphasises the importance of listening to children’s voices and recognising their capacity to engage with health information meaningfully. Her findings reveal that children do possess health literacy, and that targeted interventions can shape both immediate and long-term health behaviours.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Victoria Giacomelli, University of Portsmouth

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first episode of Series 2 of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we speak to Max Dixon, a doctoral researcher from the University of Portsmouth. Max’s research explores the intersection of foreign policy and the economy, focusing on Taiwan’s pivotal role in global supply chains.

As tensions rise in the Indo-Pacific, Max examines how Taiwan’s economic significance has become a growing concern within British foreign policy. His work reveals how anxieties about potential conflict between China and Taiwan are shaping the UK’s approach to economic security - from increased defence spending and Royal Navy expeditions to a renewed emphasis on supporting democratic allies like Taiwan and Hong Kong.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Max Dixon, University of Portsmouth

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the tenth, and final episode of Series 1 of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Toby Meredith, a doctoral researcher from the University of Portsmouth, who is exploring the complex and rapidly evolving role of drone technology in search and rescue operations and sea border surveillance in the English Channel.

Drawing on six years of experience in disaster management - including collaborations with the World Food Program and the UK Coast Guard - Toby examines how drone use intersects with humanitarian efforts and border control, with a particular focus on its impact on asylum seekers and refugees.

Toby aims to inform policy and practice, while also fostering international partnerships to broaden the reach and relevance of his findings. His research raises vital questions about ethics, technology, and the future of border management.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Toby Meredith, University of Portsmouth

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the ninth episode of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Isaac Thornton, a doctoral researcher from the University of Brighton. Isaac is researching the experiences of international students in the UK - a group 600,000 strong, whose presence brings vital financial and societal value.

Combining insights from social policy and psychology, Isaac explores how visa restrictions, housing challenges, and soaring tuition fees contribute to social exclusion. His research also reframes resilience not as an individual trait, but as a socially embedded process - one shaped by access to supportive communities and institutional resources.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Isaac Thornton, University of Brighton

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the eighth episode of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Elspeth Clark, a doctoral researcher from the University of Southampton. Elspeth’s research explores the relationship between meaningful occupation and a sense of belonging for young people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities.

Drawing on her background as an occupational therapist, Elspeth works collaboratively with students in a special school setting, using sensory and embodied methods to co-construct understanding. Her research challenges the idea that people who don’t use words to communicate can’t meaningfully engage in research, and she makes a strong case for more inclusive and participatory approaches.

Elspeth shares how she builds trusting relationships, how innovative audio-visual tools are amplifying student voices, and how her findings could inform better practices across education, health, and social care. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of recognising agency, promoting belonging, and designing research that centres those who are often left out.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Elspeth Clark, University of Southampton

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the seventh episode of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we hear from Max Dixon, a doctoral researcher from the University of Portsmouth, about his work exploring British foreign policy toward Taiwan since its first democratic election in 1996. Drawing on a poststructuralist discourse analysis, Max unpacks how parliamentary language and historical legacies—particularly those rooted in Britain’s colonial past—shape the UK’s diplomatic stance on Taiwan.

Max reflects on how his time living in Hong Kong sparked his research interest, and how he’s using interpretive methods to reveal the often-overlooked narratives that influence foreign policy decisions. He also shares how he's ensuring impact beyond academia—through writing for policy blogs, contributing to public debate, and engaging directly with policymakers and diplomats.

This conversation explores how language, history, and power intersect in international relations—and why these perspectives matter more than ever.

You can read a transcript of the conversation here.

Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at https://southcoastdtp.ac.uk/

This is a Research Podcasts production.

Credits:

Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts

Guest: Max Dixon, University of Portsmouth

Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts

Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts

Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.