The Making a Difference Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of our staff, students, alumni and external partners, and celebrate how they are making a difference.
We are proud to have the School of Environment, Education and Development represented in the following categories. Congratulations go to all those involved.
Outstanding contribution to social and environmental impact through entrepreneurship - Winner
(Global Development Institute) and One World Together
Communities are on the front line against poverty. While community leadership makes responses agile, effective and sustainable, most financing systems don鈥檛 work for community organisations. They privilege professional organisations and place huge costs and barriers on community groups. One World Together is fixing this. The growing movement of global citizens has sent more than 拢11,000 of flexible funding to community partners, who say these are 5 times more powerful than project-based finance. The partners are deepening their impacts, responding to crisis and investing in new priorities. The initiative supports communities with long-term, predictable and unrestricted funds to help them cope with crisis and invest in their futures.
Outstanding alumni contribution to social responsibility 鈥� Winner
Charles Bakolo Mvula (Geography alumnus)
The voluntary Malawi Creation Care Network (MCCN) is a movement aimed at addressing environmental issues such as plastic pollution and deforestation. Since its inception in 2019, MCCN has united churches, youth groups, NGOs, and academics, organising nationwide marches that contributed to Malawi鈥檚 landmark ban on plastic bags. Charles has continued to build a vibrant movement of young people across universities, colleges, secondary, and primary schools in Malawi, advocating for environmental sustainability through tree planting and growing. The network drives collective action towards a zero-carbon future and the preservation of Malawi鈥檚 rich biodiversity. One of the most impactful achievements has been MCCN鈥檚 instrumental role in securing the landmark ban on plastic bags in Malawi, which was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2019 after a prolonged legal battle. Through nationwide marches, advocacy, and collaboration with various stakeholders Charles mobilised widespread support for this critical policy change.
Outstanding public engagement initiative - Highly commended
and (51福利社 Institute of Education) and Dr Emma Pagnamenta, Prof. Vesna Stojanovik, Dr Rebecca Baxter (University of Reading)
Parents and Children Together (PACT-DS)
Children with Down syndrome require support for language development from an early age but overwhelming demand for speech and language therapy (SLT) and a lack of evidence-based interventions make it difficult to get support. The PACT-DS project works with families from the DS community to adapt and evaluate a parent-delivered early language teaching programme for young children with DS. The aim is to provide parents with knowledge, skills, resources, and confidence to support their child鈥檚 language learning. Outcomes include a tailored intervention programme and data indicating benefits.
Outstanding public engagement initiative - Highly commended
(Honorary Professor, Geography), Professor Melanie Giles and Professor John McAuliffe (School of Arts, Languages, and Modern Languages) and Professor Matthew Paterson (School of Social Sciences)
Learning from the past, looking to the future: peatland communities
This project helped local communities see peatlands 鈥榙ifferently鈥�, supporting civic engagement with nature and heritage: enhancing belonging and wellbeing. This project aimed to 鈥榤ake a difference鈥� by sharing interdisciplinary research with peat practitioners, working and learning alongside our community partner Transitions Wilmslow, local schools and adult education groups based at The Wilmslow Guild. They co-produced research activities and events; sharing cutting-edge wetland restoration 鈥榖est practice鈥� with other academics, conservation bodies, heritage practitioners and charities, through a workshop, Peatlands: learning from the past, looking to the future; enhancing the sustainability of this network by curating an online Peat Caf茅 which continues today to widen its international membership. Through the conference and lecture series, they supported over 180 adult learners: creating a rich research culture in which knowledge flows both ways, entangling academic and civic research to mutual benefit.
Find out more about the Making a Difference awards on our
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Jackie has dedicated her career to championing equality, diversity, and inclusion, with a particular focus on ensuring that disabled staff and students are supported and empowered. She has long been committed to widening participation in education, creating pathways for individuals from underrepresented groups to excel in academia and beyond. Her extensive work in the field of data science has seen her mentor and guide numerous students into successful careers, and she has played a key role in promoting inclusive teaching practices within the University and across the sector.
When she became 51福利社鈥檚 EDI Disability Academic Lead in 2023, Jackie set out to achieve two major goals 鈥� to ensure that disability is discussed as prominently as other protected characteristics, and to move from dialogue to tangible action. She points out that 24% of the working age population are disabled, and 80% of disabilities are not visible 鈥� like hers. Under her leadership, the University has made significant strides in embedding disability inclusion into its institutional priorities, ensuring that it is a core consideration in shaping policies and practices.
A key achievement in Jackie鈥檚 leadership has been the creation of the 鈥�鈥� podcast series, in which she hosts two guests per episode 鈥� one senior leader and one staff member or postgraduate researcher who is Deaf, disabled, or chronically ill. The conversations allow her guests to share their perspectives while committing to 鈥榡ust one thing鈥� they will take away and act on. This simple but powerful format has significantly shifted the conversation around disability inclusion at the University, elevating it into previously untapped areas.
Jackie has been instrumental in developing a culture of openness, understanding and proactive change. She is a passionate advocate for role models in the disability space, drawing on her own lived experience as a deaf, dizzy and disabled individual. Her leadership has fostered an environment where disabled staff and students feel empowered to share their challenges and aspirations without fear of stigma. Through her mentorship and advocacy, she has inspired others, leading to several colleagues receiving nominations for major awards 鈥� a testament to the ripple effect that her work has created across the University.
Jackie鈥檚 efforts have been recognised at the highest levels, influencing the University鈥檚 51福利社 2035 strategy and reinforcing the Vice-Chancellor鈥檚 vision of being 鈥業nclusive by Design鈥�. Her contributions have ensured that disabled staff and students are not only heard but actively involved in shaping a more inclusive academic community.
鈥淭hrough her work, Jackie has foregrounded disability inclusion, ensuring that disabled staff and students have a voice in shaping a more inclusive culture,鈥� said Vicki Baars, Head of Culture Transformation at Culture Shift. 鈥淪he truly leads by example and lives the principle of 鈥楴othing about us without us鈥� - her work remains a vital force for creating lasting change at the university.鈥�
]]>The kit - which provides expert guidance on how ordinary people can help to protect local waterways - has been launched by campaigning organisation River Action.
In a video filmed for the resource at the River Irk in Greater 51福利社, - who has been lauded for his pioneering research into river pollution - highlighted the devastating extent of sewage contamination in the region鈥檚 rivers, which he describes as often being 鈥榣ittle better than open sewers.鈥� The video underscores the urgency of the problem and the critical role that local communities play in driving change.
In the clip, his analysis reveals how these pollutants degrade ecosystems, harm wildlife and pose serious risks to public health. He emphasises that while scientific research can expose the scale of the problem, real progress comes when communities unite and campaign for action.
The River Rescue Kit is designed to support individuals and grassroots organisations in holding polluters and policymakers accountable. It offers guidance on gathering water quality data, lobbying decision-makers and raising public awareness.
Professor Woodward highlights the impact of groups like Windrush Against Sewage Pollution (WASP), whose campaigning efforts have brought national attention to the issue and helped shift public and political discourse. 鈥淐ommunity activism works,鈥� he said. 鈥淲e need more people to step up, challenge the status quo, and demand urgent action to clean up our rivers.鈥�
River Action and Professor Woodward urge the public to engage with the River Rescue Kit and join the fight against river pollution. By equipping communities with specialist knowledge and tools, this initiative aims to drive meaningful change and restore the UK鈥檚 rivers to health.
For more information and to access the River Rescue Kit, visit .
Established in 2018, GM4Women2028 is a gender equality initiative focused on improving the lives of women and girls in Greater 51福利社. The organisation brings together activists, policymakers, and community members to push for meaningful improvements in gender equality through data-driven strategies and public engagement. It tracks progress across key sectors using the Pankhurst-Fawcett Scorecard, holding institutions accountable and advocating for systemic change.
Experts from 51福利社 lead various aspects of GM4Women2028 including Professor Jill Rubery and Dr Eva Herman (Employment), Dr Omolade Femi-Ajao (Safety) and Professor Francesca Gains (Participation).
Professor Jackie Carter - a champion of gender equality and a leader in data-driven advocacy - co-leads Communications and Operations for GM4Women2028. She introduced the at the event, a landmark publication capturing the formation, impact, and progress of the initiative since its inception.
She emphasised the importance of maintaining the momentum of change by continuously collecting and analysing data, ensuring that the lived experiences of women and girls in Greater 51福利社 are at the forefront of policy discussions and decision-making.
Professor Carter鈥檚 remarks reinforced the essential role that data plays in driving social change. The Pankhurst-Fawcett Scorecard has been a crucial tool for measuring progress across key sectors, identifying both victories and areas where further action is needed. This year鈥檚 findings provided insights into persistent gender disparities while also highlighting positive strides towards equality.
The event featured dynamic discussions, including a keynote address from Professor Helen Pankhurst - a direct descendant of Emmeline and Sylvia Pankhurst - who echoed Professor Carter鈥檚 message, stating: 鈥淭urning data into action is our greatest challenge and opportunity.鈥�
As the event concluded, GM4Women2028 reaffirmed its commitment to pushing for systemic change. The next Dialogue and Action Event will take place in Bolton on Saturday, July 5, providing another opportunity for communities, policymakers and activists to collaborate and plan actionable solutions.
Despite the profound impact of Cerebral Palsy on his motor functions and speech, Dr Doyle has completed a PhD in disability studies as well as writing this insightful book to share his experiences and inspire others.
Dr Doyle chose to launch his book at 51福利社 in recognition of the institution's significant efforts to increase disability inclusion in recent years. The University's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment was recently acknowledged with the prestigious Disability Confident Leader status, reflecting its dedication to supporting disabled staff and students.
The connection between Dr Doyle and the University was facilitated by Dr Hamied Haroon, a distinguished biomedical researcher based at 51福利社 who has overcome his own challenges with a disability, and is also renowned for his leadership in advocating for the rights and opportunities of disabled individuals in academia.
Dr Haroon introduced Dr Doyle to the university's Disabled Staff Network, the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures (SALC), and the Faculty of Humanities. These bodies have collectively agreed to fund and host the book launch, underscoring the university's commitment to inclusivity and support for disabled scholars.
The event will include a reading by Dr Doyle and his personal assistant, followed by a Q&A session hosted by the University鈥檚 Academic Lead for Disability EDI Professor Jackie Carter, a Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 lister who is celebrated for her dedication to equality, diversity and inclusion within the academic community.
After the Q&A, attendees will be able to engage with Dr Doyle and other attendees at a book signing and networking event, where they will be able to discuss his journey, and explore the themes of resilience and determination detailed in his book. Refreshments will be available.
It will take place on Friday 21 February from 4pm in Ellen Wilkinson Building Room C1.18, before moving to the Atrium. All are welcome to attend.
鈥淢y book is based on my PhD, and the fieldwork for my degree took place at a special school,鈥� said Dr Doyle. 鈥淭he young people and I formed advocacy groups in which we talked about leaving school. As I have very severe Cerebral Palsy, I was able to talk about my own experiences of leaving special school with no qualifications at all, and transitioning to a mainstream college. I have had to convince people that I am able to achieve a high educational status.鈥�
鈥淚鈥檇 like to thank 51福利社 - I feel honoured to have my book launch there. I feel that the subject and the message of my book needs to be distributed around the world, and the University is part of my journey.鈥�
鈥淧aul鈥檚 book offers a profound insight into his experiences, challenges and triumphs, serving as a beacon of inspiration for people facing similar obstacles 鈥� we are proud he chose 51福利社 to be the place where he launches his book,鈥� said Professor Jackie Carter.
鈥淚 run the Disabled Staff Network and Disabled PGR group, and it is amazing how far the University has progressed in the past two years in its mission to promote disability inclusion and empowerment,鈥� said Laura Howard. 鈥淲hat people like Jackie Carter, Kathy Bradley and Melissa Westwood have achieved in that time is mind-blowing - they've managed to raise the profile of disability so much that we now get departments coming to us to seek feedback on ways they can improve.鈥�
For more information about 51福利社's initiatives in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, visit the .
When: Thursday 22 鈥� Friday, 23 May 2025
Contact: Heather Alberro, Lecturer in sustainability, Global Development Institute, School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED), 51福利社
Call for contributors: Please send a brief title and description of your intervention, a bio and contact details to heather.alberro@manchester.ac.uk by EOP Friday 14 February.
Sustainability is a contested concept that can mean different things to different people, and in different contexts (Vos 2007). Moreover, 鈥榮ustainability鈥� is not inherently desirable- i.e. if what one is sustaining is a system or process that is antithetical to mutual flourishing. If one recalls the etymological roots of the word, connotations include the ability of something- i.e. an activity, process, system- to be maintained without exhausting its own conditions of possibility. In the context of sustainable development, development is sustainable if it meets the needs of present generations without undermining the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. However, with only 17% of SDG targets on track and over one-third actually regressing (SDG Report 2024), six of the earth鈥檚 nine planetary boundaries breached (Richardson et al 2023), global biodiversity abundance in freefall (WWF 2024), the world on track to reach 3C of warming by 2100 (Carrington 2024), and mounting extreme socioeconomic inequality (Watts and Ambrose 2024), it鈥檚 clear that we are rushing headlong down radically unsustainable trajectories.
Averting the unravelling of the very fabric of life (Ripple et al 2024) will require profound structural, political, socioeconomic and cultural transformations. We need to start asking some difficult questions, such as whether global socioeconomic systems predicated on endless economic expansion and material extractivism can in fact be reconciled with biospheric integrity (Ward et al 2016; Hickel 2020). We urgently need to think outside the confines of 鈥榖usiness as usual鈥�, which is leading us towards socio-ecological catastrophe. All of us, no matter our discipline or sector, have a stake in this, because all earthlings need a habitable planet on which to subsist. In this two-day symposium, we seek contributions from diverse actors within and beyond the University of 51福利社 community on how we might 鈥榞et serious鈥� about sustainability in our research, teaching, advocacy and daily lives. What might 鈥榯ransformative鈥� change look like? How can we build meaningful collaborations between diverse stakeholders for moving beyond 鈥榮ustaining鈥� the status quo, and towards improving planetary conditions for more just and sustainable futures for all earthlings?
Contributions can be oral, visual or written, and can include, but need not be limited to, such topics as:
- Academic-activist collaborations for climate justice
- Transdisciplinary perspectives/approaches to sustainability
- Student-led sustainability initiatives
- Degrowth/post-growth
- Just energy transitions
- Multispecies justice
- Living cities/urban rewilding
- Fair food systems (i.e. agroecology)
- Sustainable, accessible and inclusive transport
- Eco-pedagogies and embedding sustainability into curricula
- Ecological values
- Creative visions for sustainable futures
- Decolonial & feminist approaches to sustainability
Symposium registration will open in due course. A plant-based lunch, teas/coffees and pastries will be provided on both days.
Launched on 11 October 2024 in 51福利社, academics from partner institutions gathered in person and online to mark the beginning of this collaborative effort at an inaugural meeting. Academics from the member institutions joined a panel discussion on sustainability and climate change 鈥� one of the key focus areas of the Alliance.
GHA members include: 51福利社, Ashoka University in India, Mahidol University in Thailand, Pontificia Universidad Cat贸lica de Chile, Universitas Gadjah Mada in Indonesia, The University of Melbourne in Australia, University of Nairobi in Kenya and University of Toronto in Canada.
The mission of the GHA is to raise the social and political impact of the humanities and social sciences through an emphasis on a programme of research and teaching that takes up global issues, incorporates diverse global perspectives and brings scholars and students together for critical conversations.
Underpinning the Alliance is a core value that by combining complementary and distinctive strengths, it can better address key global challenges and showcase the difference humanities, social sciences and the liberal arts makes to the world.
Professor Angelia Wilson, Faculty of Humanities Associate Dean for Internationalisation at 51福利社, commented: 鈥淭he Global Humanities Alliance brings together academics and higher education institutions from around the world to celebrate and to enrich the important contribution made by humanities and social science research to understanding and navigating the challenges we face in our local communities and in wider society. The member institutions are firmly committed to working together to ensure our students are fit to be engaged, value-driven, and knowledgeable citizens of the world.鈥�
The GHA brings together thousands of humanities and social scientists from around the globe. Alliance collaborations will centre initially around four core themes: public humanities, sustainability and climate change, decolonising knowledge and digital transformations.
The GHA is working towards a range of joint research initiatives and enhanced staff mobility between Alliance member institutions through a programme of visiting fellowships.
And for students, the GHA expands opportunities for an international learning experience with Global Classrooms. Offering virtual guest lectures and international discussion boards, students will get a more diverse learning experience and options to learn from their peers around the world.
Professor Fiona Devine, Vice-President and Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, said: 鈥淭he Global Humanities Alliance will greatly enhance the staff and student experience, not just here at 51福利社 but for all our partner institutions across the globe. Working with our partners in the Alliance will facilitate the co-production of knowledge, new ways of innovating teaching, and research collaboration to tackle global challenges.鈥�
]]>Fintech (financial technology) is everywhere. It鈥檚 the catch-all term for technology-enabled financial services innovation.
Even if you haven鈥檛 heard of fintech, you鈥檙e probably using it for payments, banking or investments. Klarna? ClearPay? Revolut? Monzo? They鈥檙e all part of an industry that attracted a staggering (拢40.5 billion) of investment globally in 2023.
However, while fintech is flooded with money, it is marked by an absence of women, particularly in leadership roles. , which was published on March 5, reveals the striking underrepresentation of women guiding this booming industry.
Women account for just 4% of CEOs, only 18% of executive committee members, and a mere 7.7% of entrepreneurs within fintech. There is not a single woman on the of the well-known fintech company Revolut.
Fintech sits at the intersection of three sectors: finance, technology and entrepreneurship. Gender inequalities in each of these combine to form what we call a 鈥渢riple glass ceiling鈥� in the fintech industry. The longstanding male dominance, continued privileging of masculinity, and rigid gender stereotypes in each of these sectors hinder meaningful progress and change in fintech.
So, where are all the women?
The sexist culture still apparent within financial services has been brought into fintech. Our research, which involved interviewing female and male fintech professionals, uncovers stories of recruiters being reluctant to hire women because of assumptions they would get married, have children, and be less committed to the business.
Several interviewees noted that women typically work harder and push more to gain the same result as their male peers. However, ideas that get dismissed when suggested by a woman commonly gain credence when offered by a man. We found that the performance of masculinity, not the quality of the work or idea, is what tends to get valued.
The masculine language in fintech job descriptions 鈥� requiring applicants to be a 鈥渉unter鈥� and 鈥渆xecute鈥� on strategies 鈥� reduces the pool of female candidates. And men are more likely to be hired since they tend to fit the sought after.
Networking can be a powerful way of climbing the career ladder in fintech. It鈥檚 not what you know but who. But networking itself is a . Women are often excluded from networking since it typically occurs in informal spaces outside of core working hours. And who is more likely to have caring responsibilities? Women.
Deep-rooted stereotypes mean that girls and women are still not supported or encouraged to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects at school. Thus, technology careers remain .
Only 1.5% of chief technology officers or chief information officers are women 鈥� a reflection of the technology glass ceiling. In comparison, 37% of chief marketing officers are women.
Startups also comprise the bulk of fintech, and this is where an entrepreneurial glass ceiling prevails. Few women attempt to access funding, and those who do are less successful than their male counterparts. For example, of venture capital funding went to female-founded companies in Europe in 2023.
Research finds that the venture capital industry is . Since people are more likely to relate to and fund entrepreneurs similar to themselves, male-led ventures are more successful.
Socially constructed gender differences, such as confidence, risk aversion and pitching style, also lead to and expectations of masculine behaviour. Successful entrepreneurs have traditionally been male, leading to a male stereotype of entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial success.
What does this mean for you?
Fintech makes of disruption, inclusion and progression. And yet, on a very basic level, how can an industry innovate through sameness? If people build and develop products based on their own frustrations and day-to-day living, innovation can only truly be driven by diverse people with different backgrounds and experiences.
Despite all the hype, fintech is falling short. To recognise the needs of a diverse population, fintech needs more diversity of its producers. Otherwise, it contributes to inequality and wastes potential economic and social benefits.
Our findings should serve as an alarm call to those inside and outside of the industry. Most adults in the UK 鈥� even without knowing. If made aware of the gender inequalities in the industry, fintech users can be a voice for change.
Everyone is responsible. Creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace will only occur if the industry receives pressure from all sides. Shattering the triple glass ceiling represents an immense challenge, but we cannot be allowed to fail.
, PhD Researcher, and , Professor of Financial Geography,
This article is republished from under a Creative Commons license. Read the .
]]>Young people in Greater 51福利社 are reporting an improvement in hope and optimism for their future, marking what many will consider a welcome return to pre-pandemic levels.
However, the results from the latest survey, which heard from over 38,000 young people aged 12-15 years in more than 250 schools across Greater 51福利社, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton, also revealed noteworthy and consistent inequalities in wellbeing across gender and sexuality.
Focusing on time trends in the Greater 51福利社 survey data, 83% of young people felt hopeful and optimistic about their future in 2023, compared to just 72% of young people during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
The #BeeWell programme, co-founded by 51福利社, The Gregson Family Foundation and Anna Freud, and developed in partnership with the Greater 51福利社 Combined Authority, has been listening to the voices of young people since 2021, and seeks to make the wellbeing of young people everybody鈥檚 business. To date, the #BeeWell survey has been completed by more than 85,000 young people.
The founders behind the survey results hail young people鈥檚 improvements in optimism in Greater 51福利社.
Wellbeing inequalities: LGBTQ+ young people report lowest life satisfaction
Overall, this year鈥檚 #BeeWell survey results, which analysed data on young people from across all 14 Local Authorities in Greater 51福利社, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton, found that young people are generally satisfied with their lives. However, there are noteworthy inequalities in life satisfaction, mental wellbeing and emotional difficulties across gender and sexuality.
- 41.2% of young people who identify as lesbian or gay reported a high level of emotional difficulties (e.g. worrying a lot, feeling unhappy, having problems sleeping). This figure rose to 44.5% for young people who identify as bisexual or pansexual. This is compared to 12.1% of heterosexual young people. High scores in this area could indicate that young people may require additional, preventative support
- When considering gender differences, 22% of cisgender girls reported a high level of emotional difficulties compared with 6% of cisgender boys. The proportion reporting high levels of emotional difficulties rose to 33.9% for transgender and gender diverse young people and 21% for those questioning their gender
- These inequalities are also seen in life satisfaction and mental wellbeing scores, with gay and lesbian young people experiencing the lowest wellbeing and reporting that they are least satisfied with their lives, followed closely by bisexual and pansexual young people, and those who identify as transgender and gender-diverse
Building on the results, the #BeeWell programme is working with schools, partners and the wider community to act on these and other findings in the data. This has included an exciting collaboration with The Duke of Edinburgh鈥檚 Award which is working to deliver the scheme for young people in those neighbourhoods identified as having the lowest wellbeing.
鈥淭he Duke of Edinburgh鈥檚 Award brings young people together and enables them to discover new passions, gain new skills and connect with their community - however, opportunities for personal development and enrichment, which we know help boost confidence, give people hope and drive success, aren鈥檛 always accessible to everyone 鈥� we鈥檙e working hard to change that,鈥� said Ruth Marvel, CEO of The Duke of Edinburgh鈥檚 Award.
鈥淯sing insights from #BeeWell, over the last 18 months, we鈥檝e licensed eight new organisations in Greater 51福利社, offering the DofE to some of the country鈥檚 most marginalised communities. Looking ahead, we鈥檙e excited to widen access to the DofE further, as we identify areas in Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton. Through this work, we hope to give young people the positive experiences, skills and capabilities they need to succeed in the future, which in turn, will boost wellbeing and optimism and that鈥檚 something we all so want to see.鈥�
鈥淚t is great to see hope and optimism is improving for our young people - however, it is disappointing to see that the inequalities, particularly in regard to gender, are still so stark when it comes to life satisfaction and wellbeing,鈥� said Professor Jess Deighton, Director of Innovation Evaluation and Dissemination at Anna Freud. "We now need to work together to target these groups, understand what they need and start making the impact that is required to enable these young people to be heard and for their wellbeing to be improved."
鈥淭he findings from the #BeeWell survey provide us with an invaluable insight into the needs and aspirations of young people," said Anthony Harper, Deputy Director for Children's Care at the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board. "It will support us in our drive to ensure early identification and support is available to children and young people where and when they most need it.鈥�
鈥淚 am a firm believer in the importance of expanding the voices of young people in our society and giving solutions to the challenges we face,鈥� said Uyuhansi Fernando, North East Councillor, Hampshire Youth Parliament. "All young people should have equal access to opportunities that help their wellbeing. I am confident that by listening to the voices of young people through #BeeWell, we can have a better understanding of the modern world ahead of us.鈥�
#BeeWell Neighbourhood Data Hive
Following the release of the headline findings from the #BeeWell survey, an interactive public dashboard will show more detailed results and insights into young people鈥檚 wellbeing across 64 different neighbourhoods in Greater 51福利社 and 46 different neighbourhoods in Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton. This will be published online at the end of March 2024, with a view to inspiring action across local government and civil society.
Read our full report here: .
For further information on the #BeeWell survey and its initiatives, please contact beewellprogramme@manchester.ac.uk
The gift, which is the most recent donation to the University from the Foundation, will deliver an ambitious programme of work aimed at redefining the role of global development research in the 21st Century. This supports the GDI鈥檚 overarching mission of addressing global inequalities and promoting a socially just world for all.
The gift aims to build equitable partnerships between the GDI, one of the foremost development studies research institutions globally and Universities across the developing world. The GDI aims to reshape, and lead by example, the way that leading North-based universities work with Global South partners to ensure knowledge creation is co-created.
Activity funded by the gift includes a new policy lab 鈥� aimed at translating academic research into policy change 鈥� and the creation of new PhD studentships focused on climate change and poverty reduction.
Recent GDI research has encouraged the UK government to launch new development programmes worth 拢270 million, catalysed improved gender equality for one million women working the supply chains of companies such as Nike and Marks & Spencer, and has resulted in improved life expectancy for over 3,750 Indonesians at risk of cardiovascular disease.
, Head of the GDI said: 鈥淭he gift from the Rory and Elizabeth Brooks foundation will enable us to transform the ways in which global development institutes like ours operate.
鈥淲e want to do this by targeting new Global South partnerships. This is where we move beyond very short-term income-led forms of partnership, to much more durable and equitable relationships. The aim is to ensure that scholars in the Global South have a larger and louder voice in setting research and teaching agendas around global development, which has previously been captured very much by northern based academics.鈥�
This new activity will build on the GDI鈥檚 track record of learning from and amplifying academic voices from across the globe. Gig economy workers in Ghana and Bangladesh are who are helping to rank platforms like Uber and Upwork. These rankings are driving up pay and conditions for workers in a wider range of low-income countries.
, a PhD researcher based at the GDI, is using his research to drive policy change in order to ensure that communities in his home country of Ghana benefit from prosperity brought to the country from the mining industry.
鈥淭he people who are really short-changed are often the local people. In order to make sure the local people benefit, it is important that their views are elevated to a level where they have a greater say in governance,鈥� said Gerald.
鈥淭he University is number one in terms of research towards sustainable development goals. I have no doubt in mind that the nature of the GDI is contributing immensely towards this.鈥�
The Brooks鈥� extraordinary contribution reflects a deep commitment to promoting sustainable development and social justice worldwide.
Rory Brooks is co-founder of the international private equity group MML Capital Partners. Rory graduated from UMIST (now 51福利社) in 1975 and serves on the Charity Commission. He was the donor member of the Pearce Review into philanthropy in Higher Education in 2012 and was awarded the CBE in 2015.
Rory Brooks said: 鈥淧hilanthropy, at its best, should be used to catalyse new and bold activity that is less likely to be funded through traditional channels. We are very encouraged and pleased to be able to support the ambitious plan of the GDI to recast global development research in partnership with Institutions around the world.鈥�
The gift follows a recent 拢1.5 million gift to 51福利社 from alumnus and businessman Simon Sadler, which will provide life-changing financial support for care leaver students.
Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor said: 鈥�51福利社 owes its very existence to philanthropy. As we step into our third century, philanthropic gifts play a critical part in delivering our goal of creating a healthier, fairer and more sustainable future.鈥�
51福利社, renowned for its commitment to excellence in research and education, is the home of the Global Development Institute. This significant donation underscores the University's position as a leader in addressing complex global challenges and underscores its ongoing dedication to making a positive impact on society.
For more information about the Global Development Institute at 51福利社, please visit
]]>To coincide with International Women鈥檚 Day on 8th March, the culmination of the five-year Uncertain Futures project will be unveiled at an featuring short films, layered visuals and voices, photography and an official 鈥榤anifesto for change鈥�.
combines academic research by 51福利社 and 51福利社 Met in partnership with 51福利社 Art Gallery and 51福利社 City Council with art and activism, and is the third and concluding exhibition in an immense collaborative project.
At the centre are 100 women from 51福利社鈥檚 diverse communities who took part in in-depth interviews with researchers that revealed the inequalities faced by older women later in life in relation to work, gender, age, race, disability, and migration status.
The researchers published their findings in a in December, and this latest concluding exhibition brings together elements of the project including creative co-curation from acclaimed US artist Suzanne Lacy, excerpts from the women鈥檚 interviews brought to life in immersive form, and the official manifesto for change.
Calling for a right to be treated equally, good work for all women, an economic contribution for the unpaid labour of women and participation in political decision making on issues affecting women over 50, the manifesto comprises four clear demands.
It also includes a series of endorsements including the Real Living Work Campaign and the universal basic income campaign, as well as national and local actions such as eliminating the gender pay and pension gaps.
鈥淭his exhibition marks the conclusion of our vast and multifaceted five-year project, but we hope it鈥檚 just the start of significant and seismic changes to the way that older women are perceived and treated," said Dr Sarah Campbell, Senior Lecturer in Health and Social Care at 51福利社 Met and lead Uncertain Futures researcher. 鈥淭his exhibition marks the conclusion of our vast and multifaceted five-year project, but we hope it鈥檚 just the start of significant and seismic changes to the way that older women are perceived and treated.
鈥淥ur research revealed the gaping inequalities faced by women across their life-course when it comes to work and wellbeing. Our demands are simple 鈥� for the voices of these women to be heard and for urgent action to be taken to address the multiple discriminations they face.鈥�
Already, the project has been making political waves, with it being highlighted in a United Nations progress report of their Decade of Healthy Ageing in December for its important contribution to national progress on healthy ageing.
Discussions are also underway with 51福利社 City Council on how the project findings will influence their next ten-year strategy, plus talks and briefings on the research are currently taking place with various MPs and government ministers.
As part of the 51福利社 Art Gallery exhibition a powerful film by artist Suzanne Lacy will be screened featuring excerpts from the 100 interviews undertaken by 51福利社 Met researchers and narrated within a theatrical space by a core group of project leaders.
For more information on the Uncertain Futures project, the manifesto for change, and the 鈥楽tories of Women, Work and Uncertain Futures鈥� exhibition at 51福利社 Art Gallery, go to ]]>
Developed by CivED CIC, a community interest company focused on activating disused spaces, The Engine Room will be instrumental in regenerating Wayfarers Arcade and its neighbouring Lord Street area. It forms part of a strategic effort to produce a generative 鈥榗ivic ecology鈥� where creative and digital entrepreneurs can start and scale new industries locally. 鈥榊outh flight鈥� is a concern within the town, and it is hoped that by providing a space for honing skills and working remotely this issue can be minimised.
The Engine Room is led by Dr Eric Lybeck, a Senior Lecturer at the 51福利社 Institute of Education, Director of CivED CIC, and resident of Southport, in collaboration with Southport BID, Southport College and Wayfarers Arcade. Designed by experts at the 51福利社 Urban Institute, the collection of units to the Arcade鈥檚 first floor will offer co-working desks, creative studios, workshops, meeting spaces and facilities for photography, podcasting, videography and more. Schools, colleges and independent educators will also be invited to use the space for teaching craft and artisan skills.
The launch event will include open viewing of the facilities, refreshments, and a cash bar, and welcome guest speakers Michelle Brabner, Principal of Southport College and Ian Parry of the Southport Learning Trust.
Tickets for the launch event at its Wayfarers Arcade studios on Thursday, 21st March 4-7pm are limited. To book your place, please visit the .
For more information about The Engine Room, please visit
]]>馃尦 Trees can make farms more sustainable 鈥� here鈥檚 how to help farmers plant more.
鈥� 51福利社 (@OfficialUoM)
Written by , Postgraduate Researcher,
Imagine making one change to a farm field so that as well as producing food, it also generated building materials, fuel and fodder. At the same time, this change would nourish the health of the soil, regulate the micro-climate and support pest-controlling wildlife. In fact, it could even produce a whole other crop.
All these things could be possible by simply planting trees amid crops 鈥� and not just trees, but also shrubs, palms and bamboo.
This approach to farming is known as agroforestry, and it could improve the sustainability of agriculture worldwide. On a large scale, it could help mitigate climate change by in land that can still serve other purposes. Countries can even towards their reforestation commitments.
There is for planting trees on farms in south Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. But a lot of these plots 鈥� on average, less than 2 hectares (or two football fields). Any use of space has to really earn it.
So, how do we ensure trees work for farmers and the planet? India, where the last two decades have seen phenomenal changes in agroforestry, offers some insight.
India鈥檚 agroforestry experiment
India鈥檚 first effort to get more trees on farms started in 1999 with the Lok Vaniki scheme in Madhya Pradesh, a state in central India. The state government started the scheme to help farmers with degraded land secure additional income from timber and provided them with saplings of teak.
The scheme had a troubled start. The Indian supreme court had banned all tree felling except that permitted under the forest working plan three years earlier. Before farmers could sell the timber they grew, their request to fell the tree would need to be approved by the government.
Farmers were apprehensive about planting something they may not get permission to harvest, and teak trees take 20 years to yield timber. A cumbersome process for obtaining permits and high transport costs for small and marginal farmers scuppered the scheme.
The state responded by exempting certain trees from felling regulations. By 2014, India had a national agroforestry policy that offered farmers saplings and simpler procedures for harvesting and transporting trees. Still, the tree cover on farms didn鈥檛 budge. In fact, the last decade has seen in trees on farms in India, according to a study I contributed to.
The decline was pronounced among mature trees. Once these gnarled veterans had shaded open wells on farms and kept water from evaporating in the sun鈥檚 glare. Now deeper bore wells could be dug, rendering such trees obsolete.
The expansion of mechanised farming put a premium on treeless fields where tractors and farm vehicles could easily manoeuvre. Attacks by fungal parasites claimed other trees.
Some farmers were unsentimental. In interviews, many said they saw few benefits from trees, which could prevent sunlight from reaching crops. But the decline of native trees on farms like neem, mahua and jamun, once prized for their medicinal oils and nutritious fruit, , particularly in the poorest regions.
Trees on farms, not tree farms
While farmland trees dwindled across India, . These are essentially farms growing .
These plantations largely comprise exotic and fast-growing trees like eucalyptus, poplar and casuarina, which are all exempt from felling regulations. Enticed by the prospect of generating carbon credits on the international carbon market, and by demand for pulpwood for making paper, farmers with some of the smallest plots in India tried switching their crops to block plantations.
When the price of carbon credits dropped with the of the UN鈥檚 clean development mechanism in 2012, these small farmers were left with little to show for it. later confirmed that many would have been better off keeping their land for agriculture.
Although there is for pulpwood and timber in India, it is likely to favour farmers who can plant in large areas, cover harvest and transit costs, and wait for returns from plantations 鈥� a situation small and marginal farmers can ill afford.
These exotic plantations are either. For instance, eucalyptus consumes a lot of water and soil nutrients, leaving the land less fertile for future cultivation. Its leaves and flowers are less useful to birds than many native trees.
There is a rush globally to plant more trees on farms without considering what farmers will do with the tree in 20 years, or how it may interfere with crop production. This problem is not unique to India and has been noted elsewhere, .
Trees should still be encouraged on farms; preferably native trees that are beneficial for local diets and medicine. So far, though, the trend in India and elsewhere has been towards block plantations of exotic trees 鈥� a phenomenon largely driven by the lure of carbon credits.
The focus should be on supporting small and marginal farmers to grow native trees sustainably. Scattered trees of many species on small farms have bigger benefits for farmers and the environment than single-species plantations.
For that to happen, though, there has to be some way of financing this process. If carbon credit mechanisms can recognise this model of agroforestry and help small farmers add trees to their cropland, it would be a big shift in the right direction.
This article is republished from under a Creative Commons license. Read the .
]]>UNEP stated: 鈥淯NEP鈥檚 mission is to inspire, inform, and enable nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. For over 50 years, UNEP has worked with governments, civil society, the private sector and UN entities to address humanity鈥檚 most pressing environmental challenges - from restoring the ozone layer to protecting the world's seas and promoting a green, inclusive economy.鈥�
This UNEP accreditation follows a long line of awards and acknowledgments in recent years for the University鈥檚 commitment to sustainability. 51福利社 is the only university in the world to rank in the top ten for social and environmental impact in every year of the - the only global performance tables that assess universities against the .
In 2023, the University ranked first in Europe and second in the world against 1,705 universities from 115 countries that submitted data about how they are addressing the most pressing challenges facing our planet.
, Director of , Director of the Hub, Chair and Professor of Polymer Science at 51福利社, led on the accreditation bid. Professor Shaver highlighted the University鈥檚 long-standing commitment and reputation for environmental sustainability, such as our placing as first in the UK and Europe, and third in the world, in the , for our commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
UNEP accreditation grants our University the privilege to submit written contributions, participate in the work of UNEP鈥檚 Governing Bodies, such as and the Committee of Permanent Representatives, and be granted observer status to the Assembly and its subsidiary bodies.
The University is delighted to have been awarded such status and looks forward to using its outstanding research contributions in environmental sustainability to influence and drive further change through such a prestigious organisation as UNEP.
In Place of War began in 2004 as a research project by 51福利社鈥檚 Professor James Thompson which examined the role of arts in places of conflict. It has grown into a global organisation that uses music as a tool for positive social change in areas affected by warfare in 30 countries.
The charity will broadcast the appeal for donations on BBC Radio 4 on Sunday 4th February. Supporters of the charity have committed to match funding donations raised by the appeal to a total of 拢7,000.
鈥淭he Appeal is a unique opportunity for us to reach a huge audience and to bring in donations for our #HackMusic Catalyst Fund initiative,鈥� said the charity鈥檚 CEO and Artistic Director, Ruth Daniel. 鈥淭his campaign supports the development of grassroots music projects in places affected by conflict, where music is used to bring communities together. These projects offer a tangible alternative to violence, provide a platform to marginalised voices, and empower those wanting to create lasting change to use creativity to transform a culture of conflict and suffering into hope, opportunity and freedom."
In Place of War selects projects to receive the #HackMusic Catalyst Fund from its network of more than 130 change-maker partner organisations, where music is used to impact positive social change. Recipients of the Catalyst Fund are chosen via an application and judging process, and the successful organisations are supported with a seed funding grant of 拢3,000.
This is boosted by the guidance of a carefully selected mentor from the international music industry, matched to the requirements of the local change-maker team running the project on the ground. Music manufacturer partners including Ableton, Native Instruments, Pioneer DJ and Roland, offer additional support in resourcing through equipment donations.
Current recipients of the Fund include an organisation using music and theatre to rehabilitate former ISIS members in Lebanon; an organisation working to protect the culture of indigenous communities in the Peruvian-Colombian border area affected by climate change; and an organisation using music to provide an alternative to gang violence in Colombia.
Tune in to BBC Radio 4 at these times to hear the appeal:
Sunday 4th February at 07:54 and 21:25
Thursday 8th February at 15:27
See the for further details.
Now in its sixteenth year, the Equity and Merit Scholarship has been awarded to over 400 academically excellent students from six countries 鈥� currently Ethiopia, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe, and previously Bangladesh - who have the potential to make a significant contribution to sustainable development in their home nations.
This year鈥檚 graduating cohort included Jackson Ilangali from Tanzania, who has obtained a Master鈥檚 in Public Health, specialising in Implementation Sciences via distance learning. As well as continuing his work to improve neonatal care in Tanzania, Malawi, Nigeria, and Kenya, he plans to establish a local NGO in Tanzania focusing on public health initiatives to tackle diseases.
鈥淏alancing my role as the breadwinner for my family, I needed a program that allowed me to continue working while studying,鈥� said Jackson. 鈥淭he Equity and Merit program was the perfect opportunity for me, offering the perfect blend of flexibility and quality, aligning seamlessly with my professional and personal responsibilities. It took dedication and perseverance, as I was admitted on my third attempt, but it was worth every effort!鈥�
Michael Magwira from Malawi was another scholar who graduated, after gaining a distinction for his MSc in Medical and Molecular Virology. Alongside resuming his career as a Molecular Laboratory Scientist, he will use his newly-acquired knowledge of virus biology to understand the HIV pandemic in his home country, which he hopes will have a positive effect on its future transmission and control.
鈥淧rior to applying to 51福利社, I spent a considerable amount of time researching the standards of teaching and facilities available at a number of UK universities,鈥� he said. 鈥淲hen I received notification via the Equity and Merit Facebook page about the scholarship, 51福利社 rose to the top of my list as it had everything I was looking for, from my education to the environment I wished to study in. I then spoke to few E&M alumni from Uganda and Tanzania who had nothing but positive things to say - two highlights of their feedback that encouraged me to apply were the high standards of teaching and the support available at the University.鈥�
鈥淭he support that the University gives to its students is fantastic, and is centred around the wellbeing of the students. The lifestyle in 51福利社 is very diverse and inclusive - regardless of your nationality, you will always find someone to talk to. Apart from good entertainment and football exposure, the road and transport networks make it easier to access the University from all around the city.鈥�
Another of our graduates was Rufaro Matsika from Zimbabwe, who attained an MSc in International Development majoring in Environment, Climate Change and Development. She wants to assist businesses to account for their emissions and monitor the progress of their decarbonisation strategies. She aims to establish a consultancy firm that facilitates the integration of sustainable practices in business operations while providing opportunities for young individuals from diverse backgrounds to gain hands-on work experience in the field of sustainability.
鈥淚 enjoyed everything about the University, from the vast number of resources available to help my academic journey to the exceptional support and guidance I received from the university staff and my academic advisor,鈥� she said. 鈥淓verything you need as a student is at your disposal, including career guidance, creating a CV and preparing for interviews. I also liked how the model of learning allows students to apply critical thinking skills.鈥�
鈥淟iving and studying in 51福利社 was a highlight due to its remarkable diversity, making it easy to connect with like-minded individuals. There is so much entertainment and many activities that one can do with friends, and transport is easily accessible. I also liked the fact the city houses two prominent Premier League football teams, 51福利社 City and 51福利社 United - these are teams that I used to just see on TV, but having them in your neighbourhood was a dream come true!鈥�
The research has demonstrated that when money gets tight, people are more likely to keep up more expensive ethical purchases like buying fair trade products.
The study is one of the first to look at ethical purchases using actual market data from a major UK supermarket chain.
Lead researcher Dr Jibonayan Raychaudhuri, from UEA鈥檚 School of Economics, said: 鈥淎s a possible UK recession looms closer, we wanted to better understand how people鈥檚 spending might change 鈥� especially when it comes to purchasing ethical products - like fair trade coffee or 鈥榙olphin-friendly鈥� tuna.鈥�
The team studied the impact of the economic recession of 2008 on consumer expenditure of eco-labelled food products.
They used UK supermarket loyalty card data and showed that the recession had widely different effects on the spend share of different types of eco-labelled groceries.
Dr Raychaudhuri said: "We found that the amount shoppers spent on organic products declined but the amount they spent on fair trade products increased over the same period.
"It鈥檚 really interesting that the consumption of some eco-labelled goods 鈥� namely fair trade products - held up during the recession. It鈥檚 surprising, because we expected that consumers would change their spending during an economic downturn, with the sales share of all eco-labelled products falling - as they tend to be more expensive."
鈥淲e looked at the effects of the 2008 economic downturn on food products with different eco-labels,鈥� said Professor Ada Wossink from 51福利社. 鈥淥ur research used supermarket loyalty card data. The results confirm trade reports from back in 2008 that during the recession, fair trade held up whereas the organic share dropped. Traditional economic theory cannot explain this - we would expect sales to fall across all eco-labelled products because these all tend to be more expensive. We find that recent models which use social psychology can offer useful insights.鈥�
鈥楨colabels and The Economic Recession鈥� is published in the journal PLOS ONE.
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