Newsroom University of 99�þþ�Ʒ

Doomscrolling or connecting? Study reveals social media’s complex effect on loneliness

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:24:44 +0100

Whether social media connects us or leaves us feeling isolated depends on how we use it, according to new research from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ. A major review of global evidence has found that online interactions can either reduce or increase loneliness, which challenges simple assumptions about screen time and wellbeing.

Key findings

Social media can reduce loneliness when used to build or maintain relationships
Passive use, such as scrolling without interacting, is linked to higher loneliness
People with strong offline networks benefit more from social media use
User motivations - such as connection versus escape - shape outcomes
Platform design and online experiences influence whether users feel connected or isolated
More long-term research is needed to fully understand impacts on wellbeing

What did the study find?

Dr Rebecca Nowland assessed the latest global evidence on the relationship between social media and loneliness.

The findings highlight a complex picture. Social media can strengthen social connections when it is used to interact meaningfully - such as messaging friends, sharing experiences or receiving supportive responses.

However, simply scrolling through content without engaging - often referred to as ‘passive use’ - is consistently linked to higher levels of loneliness.

Why does how we use social media matter?

The study shows that the impact of social media depends heavily on how and why people use it.

People who go online to connect with others may experience reduced loneliness. In contrast, those using social media to escape difficult feelings or social situations may see the opposite effect.

In some cases, trying to replace face-to-face interaction with online activity can actually make loneliness worse.

Who benefits most from social media use?

Not everyone benefits equally.

The research found that people who already have strong social networks are more likely to gain positive experiences online, including support and a sense of belonging.

Those who feel isolated offline, however, may struggle to achieve the same benefits - even if they use social media frequently.

What role do platforms and online experiences play?

Platform design is also important.

Features that encourage direct interaction - such as private messaging or sharing images - can help create a stronger sense of connection. By contrast, platforms or features focused on broadcasting or passive consumption offer fewer emotional benefits.

Experiences themselves also matter. Supportive comments and meaningful exchanges can reduce loneliness, while being ignored, excluded or exposed to negative interactions can increase it.

What are the gaps in current research?

Despite growing interest in the topic, the study highlights important gaps in existing research.

Much of the evidence is based on snapshots in time rather than long-term studies, making it difficult to determine cause and effect. The paper calls for more robust research using real usage data and longer-term methods.

Why does this matter?

With loneliness increasingly recognised as a major public health issue, the findings suggest that improving how people engage online could play an important role in tackling the problem.

Encouraging more active and meaningful use of social media - and designing platforms that support this - may help maximise benefits while reducing harms.

This research was published in Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences.

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From Salford to Shanghai: how cities around the world are taking back control of housing

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0100

A major new international study led by The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ has revealed how policymakers around the world are becoming far more active in constructing affordable housing. Drawing on evidence from cities including Salford, Shanghai, Nairobi and Paris, the research shows how governments are stepping in where private markets have failed - reshaping housing systems, markets and state institutions in the process.

Key findings

Governments across the global North and South are increasing their role in delivering affordable housing
States are adopting new tools to influence housing supply, finance and land development
Public-private partnerships and new financial models are being used to support large-scale housing
Cities are experimenting with different ways to balance social need and market pressures
Salford and Shanghai highlight contrasting but equally interventionist approaches

What did the study find?

Led by Dr Tom Gillespie, the study provides one of the first global comparisons of how states are responding to a growing housing crisis affecting billions of people.

Drawing on research from Shanghai, Salford, Nairobi, Paris, Casablanca and Rome, it shows that governments are increasingly stepping in as private markets struggle to deliver adequate and affordable homes at scale.

While previous decades favoured light-touch state involvement, this is now changing, with governments taking a more active role in shaping housing systems.

How are governments responding?

The research shows that states are adopting a wide range of new approaches to influence housing supply, finance and land development.

In many cases, this includes experimenting with public-private partnerships, land value capture and new state-backed financial mechanisms to make large-scale housing programmes viable.

Across all six cities, the researchers identified common themes, including what motivates governments to intervene, how new financial and institutional tools are being used, and how risks in housing markets are being redistributed.

What is happening in Salford?

Salford is highlighted as one of the most distinctive examples in the study.

Within England’s market-driven planning system, the local authority has developed an unusually interventionist approach. While earlier regeneration focused on property-led development such as Salford Quays, more recent efforts have aimed to address the lack of affordable housing.

From 2016, the Council began redirecting developer contributions into a council-owned company to build new social housing. These homes are let at below-market “Salford rents” and are exempt from the national ‘right to buy’, helping to protect them from speculative pressures.

Although still relatively small in scale, the model is identified as an example of local state action designed to “de-financialise” housing while still working within a market-led system.

What about Shanghai?

Shanghai offers a contrasting but equally interventionist model.

After decades of market-driven housing growth, the city has shifted towards a more active role, using state control of land and developers to deliver affordable homes for different social groups.

Policies include shantytown renewal, shared ownership schemes and subsidised rental housing, aimed at tackling rising property prices while supporting social stability and inclusion.

Why is this shift happening?

The study highlights a broader global shift away from reliance on private markets alone.

As housing affordability crises deepen, governments are increasingly intervening to address gaps in supply and access. This marks the end of an era of minimal state involvement and the emergence of more active, experimental approaches to housing policy.

Researcher quote

“Our research shows that states are once again becoming central players in efforts to tackle the global affordable housing crisis, but this isn’t a simple return to old models of public housing,” said Dr Tom Gillespie. “Instead, we are seeing a wide range of new approaches emerging as governments try to balance social needs with the realities of financialised urban development.

What are the implications?

The researchers suggest that understanding how different cities are responding can help inform future housing policy.

By identifying shared patterns and innovative approaches, the study provides a framework for policymakers seeking to tackle housing crises in their own contexts.

Publication details

The study was published in journal Urban Studies.

DOI:

New book examines the rise of Africa's 'model nation' - and considers its future

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0100

A new book by The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ’s explores how Rwanda rebuilt its economy after the 1994 genocide to become one of Africa’s most frequently cited development success stories, while questioning whether its current growth model can deliver long-term prosperity.

Key findings

Rwanda has achieved rapid economic growth and built a reputation for effective state-led development, but the book argues that long-term prosperity may depend on deeper industrial transformation rather than continued reliance on service-led growth.

Why has Rwanda been described as Africa’s ‘model nation’?

Over the past two decades, Rwanda has often been portrayed as one of Africa’s standout economic success stories. The country has recorded strong GDP growth, expanded healthcare and education, increased tourism revenues and built an international reputation for effective state leadership.

Kigali has also positioned itself as a hub for finance, conferences and high-end tourism, helping Rwanda gain praise from international donors and policymakers.

What does the new book examine?

In , Dr Pritish Behuria offers one of the most in-depth accounts yet of how Rwanda has pursued rapid development in the face of major historical and structural challenges.

Drawing on nearly two decades of research, including extensive fieldwork and interviews with policymakers, business leaders and development partners, the book explores whether Rwanda has achieved genuine economic transformation or whether its growth masks deeper vulnerabilities.

Why might Rwanda’s future remain uncertain?

Dr Behuria argues that growth alone does not necessarily lead to long-term development.

Instead, sustainable prosperity typically depends on what economists call structural transformation: the shift from dependence on agriculture and raw materials towards higher-value manufacturing and productive domestic industries.

While this process underpinned the rise of many economies in Europe and East Asia, manufacturing remains limited across much of Africa, including Rwanda.

Has Rwanda relied too heavily on services?

Rather than prioritising manufacturing, Rwanda has focused heavily on services such as tourism, finance and international events.

The book examines whether this strategy can create enough jobs, technological learning and domestic business development to sustain long-term economic progress.

Rather than offering a simple verdict, the book presents a balanced assessment that recognises Rwanda’s achievements while exploring the risks and limits of its current model.

What does Rwanda’s experience say about development more broadly?

The book contributes to wider debates about whether African countries can build new pathways to development in today’s global economy.

“The space to experiment, protect industries and build domestic champions is much narrower. Rwanda’s experience shows what is possible - and how fragile success can be - in today’s globalised era.”

Publication details

will be published by Cambridge University Press on April 30th, and will be available open access.

Back-to-basics approach can match or outperform AI in language analysis

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 09:55:01 +0100

A new study led by Dr Andrea Nini at The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ has found that a grammar-based approach to language analysis can match or outperform advanced AI systems in identifying who wrote a text. The method, called LambdaG, uses patterns in grammar and sentence construction rather than large-scale AI models, offering comparable accuracy with greater transparency and lower computational cost.

Key findings

A grammar-based authorship analysis method matched or exceeded leading AI systems across most test datasets
The approach outperformed several neural network-based authorship verification models
Researchers tested the method across 12 real-world writing datasets including emails, forums and reviews
The system is more transparent than many AI models because it shows which grammatical patterns informed decisions
Researchers say the findings challenge assumptions that more complex AI always produces better results

What did the study find?

Researchers found that a relatively simple, linguistically grounded method can perform as well as - and in some cases better than - complex artificial intelligence systems in identifying authorship.

The study suggests that increasingly sophisticated AI is not always necessary for high-performing writing analysis, particularly when methods are designed around established principles of how language works.

How does the LambdaG method work?

The method, called LambdaG, analyses patterns in grammar rather than relying on large-scale machine learning models.

It builds a statistical profile of how an individual writes by measuring features such as function word usage (words like it, of and the), sentence structure, punctuation patterns and other grammatical habits.

The researchers say these features create a distinctive behavioural signature for each writer.

Why is this different from AI-based authorship analysis?

Many current authorship verification systems rely on complex AI models trained on vast datasets. While effective, these systems can be difficult to interpret, computationally expensive and hard to explain in high-stakes settings such as legal investigations. By contrast, LambdaG provides a transparent explanation of which grammatical features influenced its conclusions.

How accurate was the method?

Researchers tested LambdaG across 12 datasets designed to reflect real-world writing scenarios, including emails, online forum posts and consumer reviews.

In most cases, the method achieved higher accuracy than several established authorship verification systems, including neural network-based approaches.

Why does grammar reveal authorship?

The researchers argue that grammar acts as a behavioural signature, like how we write our signature or how we walk.

Over time, individuals develop unconscious habits in how they structure sentences and use language. These habits create identifiable linguistic patterns that can distinguish one writer from another.

What are the potential applications?

The researchers say the method could support work in:

Forensic linguistics
Criminal investigations
Online abuse detection
Academic integrity monitoring

The study was published in Humanities and Social Sciences Communications.

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University signs Memorandum of Understanding with Tokyo University of the Arts and National Center for Art Research, Japan

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 13:43:08 +0100

The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, through Creative 99�þþ�Ʒ, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the “" at (TUA) — commonly known as the ART-based Platform for Co-creation — and the (NCAR), part of the National Museum of Art, Japan.

This notable three-way partnership is centred on creative health and will help to foster a deeper academic and cultural exchange between Japan and the UK in this area of research. It will form the basis for future research collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ (GM) is recognised as a national and world reference for creative health. Building on a long history of arts and health work, GM launched its Creative Health Strategy in 2022, with ambitions for GM to become the world’s first Creative Health City Region. The GM Creative Health Place Partnership continues to support the development and delivery of creative health activity across Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ.

As part of this MoU, the three partners (UoM, the ART-based Platform for Co-creation, and NCAR), will work collaboratively with the Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ Combined Authority (GMCA) GM Place Partnership, to strengthen international research collaborations.

The agreement will be formally signed in Tokyo on 23 May 2026, following the , at The National Art Center, Tokyo, where colleagues from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ will present on creative health initiatives in Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ.

Whilst in Tokyo, The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ and GMCA colleagues have been invited to speak at the , alongside academics from TUA and NCAR.

The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ is proud to work collaboratively with a number of renowned teaching institutions across the globe, with several partners located in Asia including 99�þþ�Ʒ-Chinese University of Hong Kong, 99�þþ�Ʒ-Ashoka University, 99�þþ�Ʒ O.P. Jindal Global University, 99�þþ�Ʒ-IISC Bangalore and 99�þþ�Ʒ-Manipal Academy of Higher Education.

The University collaborates with other institutions around the world at a faculty level through impactful MoUs, ensuring colleagues can collaborate with global peers in their field and access the resources they need to co-create cutting-edge research.

The Faculty of Humanities was a founding member of the Global Humanities Alliance, a partnership that includes the University of Melbourne, University of Toronto, University of Nairobi, Ashoka University, Mahidol University, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Universitas Gadjah Mada and The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ.

The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ is globally renowned for its pioneering research, outstanding teaching and learning, and commitment to social responsibility. We are a truly international university – ranking in the top 50 in a range of global rankings – with a diverse community of more than 44,300 students, 12,800 colleagues and 585,000 alumni.

Evidence on racism and ethnic inequalities in the pandemic presented to the Covid-19 public inquiry

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 13:30:39 +0100

Professor James Nazroo and Professor Laia Becares recently presented evidence on ethnic and racial inequalities during the pandemic to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry.

Their testimony draws on their which found that there have been clear and stark ethnic inequalities in infection and mortality rates, testing, monitoring, and vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 infection, and health, health behaviours and healthcare.

People from ethnic minority groups also experienced detrimental impacts of the pandemic in other ways, such as on their finances, housing, social networks, experiences with the police, and education. These factors are important social determinants of health and wellbeing. The unequal impacts of the pandemic on these factors have led to ethnic inequalities being exacerbated as a result of the pandemic.

James and Laia’s expert report shows how ethnic inequalities result from historical and ongoing racism, which meant that before the pandemic hit, people from ethnic minority groups were more likely to be poorer; have poorly paid and insecure employment; live in overcrowded housing; and live in deprived neighbourhoods with high rates of concentrated poverty and increased pollution. All of these social and economic factors contributed to inequalities in Covid-19 infection and mortality.

The report also criticises the ‘colour blind’ approach taken by political and administrative decision-makers, which meant that they did not take into account the extra social and economic vulnerabilities experienced by ethnic minority groups. This resulted in unequal impacts experienced as a result of social distancing and lockdown measures introduced to control the spread of the pandemic. This included impacts on mental and physical health, in part as a result of limited access to necessary healthcare, in part as a consequence of poorer housing conditions, the greater likelihood of living in deprived areas with limited access to green space and exercise, and in part as a result of the disruption of social and community sources of support. The more vulnerable employment and financial situation of some groups of ethnic minority people prior to the pandemic also meant that they experienced greater negative financial impacts from lockdown measures.

AI study reveals England’s productivity divide is far more complex than North-South

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 12:48:23 +0100

Researchers at The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ have used artificial intelligence to uncover a complex picture behind England’s long-running productivity puzzle, challenging the idea that the country’s economic performance can be explained by a simple North-South divide.

In a major study published in the journal, and applied ‘GeoAI’ techniques - combining geography and artificial intelligence - to analyse how productivity varies across local authorities in England between 2010 and 2022.

Productivity, measured as Gross Value Added (GVA) per hour worked, is a key driver of wages and living standards. Since the 2008 financial crisis, UK productivity growth has lagged behind other major economies, fuelling debate among economists and policymakers.

The research shows that the national picture hides a complex local story. While London and the South-East still contain many of the highest-productivity areas, performance within the region varies. Some traditionally strong local authorities have experienced stagnation or decline over the past decade - and several lower-productivity areas in the Midlands and northern England have recorded faster growth, albeit from a lower starting point.

The study found that nearly half of England’s local authorities performed below the national average on both productivity level and growth rate between 2010 and 2022. Fewer than one in five achieved both high productivity and strong growth.

Using GIS and machine learning models, the team identified factors most strongly linked to high productivity - a high concentration of information and communication sector jobs, higher wages, and proximity to other high-productivity areas known as “spillover effects.” The findings show being near a productive neighbour can boost performance, but only once certain thresholds are reached. Agglomeration effects are real, but not automatic or evenly shared.

The study also found that some widely cited drivers, including regional R&D investment and infrastructure, were less influential in explaining productivity differences than expected.

The researchers classified England’s 296 local authorities into 12 productivity types, ranging from vulnerable labour markets with weak industrial bases to specialised information and finance centres with very strong output per hour worked. The results show no single policy solution will work everywhere. Some places need to strengthen their industrial mix, others would benefit from stronger links to economic hubs, and in some areas improving health and workforce resilience could make a difference.

The findings come as debates around devolution, regional growth, and the future of the UK economy intensify. The researchers argue that national productivity strategies must take local spatial dynamics into account, as policies designed at broad regional scales may overlook variations within them.

“The usual headline story of a ‘North-South divide’ is too simplistic - when we look closely, we see a patchwork of places moving at different speeds,” said Professor Wong. “The productivity puzzle can be interpreted as a new ‘hare and tortoise story’ - many high performers are losing ground in the race, when some poor performers are trying hard to catch up.”

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Generous gift from the niece of Law alumna Nancy Rigby funds extra Lemn Sissay Bursaries

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:43:53 +0100

Nancy graduated in 1945, one of only a handful of women studying law at the University at that time. Her great niece, Jen Gibbons, Clinical Legal Education Supervisor at the University’s made the generous gift using her inheritance from Nancy.

Established in 2017 and named after the University’s former Chancellor, , the bursary aims to address the disproportionately low numbers of Black and Black-mixed heritage individuals from socio-economically underrepresented backgrounds entering the legal and criminal justice professions.

At the time of the donation, Professor Carolyn Abbot, Interim Head of The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ Law School said:

Nanjing Hydropolis: Broadening horizons together

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:35:48 +0100

The Nanjing Hydropolis Spring School took place between 22-31 March and was organised by the School of Architecture and The Confucius Institute at the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ. It aimed to offer an insight into the historic city of Nanjing and people’s life through its water infrastructure to help participants’ understanding of relationships between urban space, ecological processes and social activity.

The programme, which was open to students and recent graduates of the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, took 16 participants into the deep ends of water infrastructure in the historic city of Nanjing. Students observed and discussed water infrastructure with planners, designers, government officials and NGOs for an exploration of the relationship between water, the city and its people.

The group was taken to many sites designed by faculty of the hosting institution, Southeast University. This included drainage pump stations on Jiangxin Island, renovation projects on Qinhuai River in Nanjing, Little Qinhuai in Yangzhou and a café on top of the pump station that allows the public access to an important infrastructure of the island. The renovation projects along the Little Qinhua River also provide public spaces like an exhibition hall, a hotel and office buildings.

Prior to the site visits, participants had the chance to hear from the designers about their design concepts and the consideration of the historic landscape and eco-system. They also visited ecological sites such as the Apricot Blossom Lake from the recycled water from Nanjing Iron and Steel Works and a small animal farm on-site. The Jiangbei Water Source Heat Pump station uses river water to provide heating and cooling to thousands of households and businesses. Seeing the river dolphins (known as Finless Porpoise) returning to the world’s third largest river, the Yantze, after extinction was the highlight of the trip for many.

Inspired by these innovative projects with the smart design and humanistic approach to water infrastructure, participants, together with their Chinese teammates, created models to reflect their observations and presented their analysis to the expert panel on the final day.

The programme attracted the attention of local media and received coverage in the Nanjing Express and the Nanjing Morning Post – with millions of views on Chinese social media.

Nanjing Hydropolis was funded by , China and the .

Economics, Football and the Future

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:10:52 +0100

Young people in the North West are significantly less likely to study economics than their peers in London, despite the subject opening doors to high‑value careers and essential life skills. Research commissioned by the Bank of England shows that students in London are more than twice as likely to take economics at A‑Level as those in the North West, raising concerns about the region’s future representation in the economists and policymakers who shape the UK’s economy.

To help close this gap, the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, in partnership with Discover Economics, The Bank of England and the Office for National Statistics, hosted an engagement event, The Economics of Football, on 31 March, bringing over 100 Year 10 pupils from widening‑participation schools across the region onto campus for a hands‑on introduction to economics.

Using Football to Bring Economics to Life

The one‑day event used the universal language of football to show how economics connects directly to everyday life. Pupils rotated through three interactive sessions linked to the 2026 Men’s World Cup:

Pricing the World Cup: A dynamic workshop where pupils learned about supply, demand and price elasticity before setting real ticket and merchandise prices based on fan demand and stadium capacity.

Football and the National Economy: Students explore how football contributes to the UK economy and debate economic concepts behind footballer wages, taxation, productivity and broader social value.

The day concluded with a panel discussion featuring University of 99�þþ�Ʒ alumni, economists and current economics students.

Creating Aspirations and Broadening Participation

Economics is one of the fastest‑growing subjects in the UK, with A‑Level entries rising 60% between 2012 and 2023. Yet participation remains uneven. The recent Understanding Trends in the Study of Economics report highlights persistent inequalities by region, gender and socio‑economic background, with disadvantaged students and girls consistently underrepresented.

As part of a new three‑year partnership, the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ and the Bank of England are working to tackle these gaps by co‑creating the Teach Economics initiative, which supports teachers in delivering high‑quality economics in more state schools, starting in the North West.

Teach Economics is delivered by the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ and co-created by the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, and the Bank of England.

99�þþ�Ʒ researchers shape major parliamentary report on Women, Peace, and Security

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:16:11 +0100

Professor Toni Haastrup, Chair in Global Politics, University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, played a central role in the inquiry, advising the Committee on its terms of reference, providing written and , and helping shape the lines of questioning used with ministers and senior officials. Her research on feminist foreign policy and the limitations of current WPS implementation forms a core part of the Committee’s conclusions.

Professor Haastrup said: “I am pleased to see the Committee acknowledge both the importance of the Women, Peace and Security agenda and the urgent need to strengthen its implementation. Our research at 99�þþ�Ʒ shows that while the UK has made strong rhetorical commitments, meaningful progress requires sustained resources, genuine cross government ownership, and a more inclusive understanding of whose security counts."

The report makes recommendations based on written evidence submitted by Dr Laura McLeod, Senior Lecturer in International Politics at the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, and Dr Georgina Holmes (Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Studies at the Open University). They provided expert drawing attention to the need for more robust monitoring and evaluation of the UK’s WPS implementation.

Dr Jamie J Hagen, Lecturer in International Politics, University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, also provided expert written evidence, drawing attention to gaps in cross-government implementation and the need for the WPS agenda to better protect LGBTQ rights.

Many of the recommendations made by the Committee, including the call to review and strengthen the UK’s National Action Plan on WPS, reflect arguments advanced by the 99�þþ�Ʒ academics who collectively offer breadth and depth of expertise on the WPS agenda. In addition to Haastrup, McLeod and Hagen, the WPS-focused research is delivered by Dr Hannah Wright, Lecturer in Global Politics, and several PhD students.

The publication comes amid ongoing cuts to the Overseas Development Assistance budget. The 99�þþ�Ʒ team has warned that diminishing resources may further undermine the UK’s ability to lead on gender equality, conflict prevention, and inclusive peacebuilding.

You can read the full report and evidence submissions on the .

References:

report
Written evidence from Dr Georgia Holmes (Open University) and Dr Laura McLeod (The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ):
Written evidence from Professor Toni Haastrup (The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ:
Oral evidence from Professor Toni Haastrup at the International Development Committee, House of Commons, Tuesday 18 November 2025:
Written evidence from Dr Jamie J Hagen (The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ):

99�þþ�Ʒ researchers launch major UKRI funded project to understand “air inequalities”

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:36:26 +0000

Led by sociologist Professor Sophie Woodward, Air Spaces: Getting the Measure of Air will explore the social, scientific and environmental dimensions of air quality, focusing on communities in 99�þþ�Ʒ where pollution levels are significantly above WHO guidelines.

Air pollution does not affect everyone equally. Housing conditions, neighbourhood geography, transport infrastructure, and work environments all contribute to unequal exposure. Yet research and policy responses often rely on narrow or fragmented datasets. This project seeks to address that gap by combining:

atmospheric sensor data
qualitative research
creative and heritage-based methods
community knowledge and participation

By developing a new framework for understanding “air inequalities”, the team aims to inform more inclusive and effective approaches to air quality policy and public health intervention.

The research will work closely with community groups and local authorities and brings together UoM academics across multiple faculties: Dr Jenna Ashton, Dr Andrew Balmer, Dr Thomas Bannan, Dr Steve Hicks and Dr Vladimir Jankovic. The project was selected by UKRI as a featured award within its latest Cross Research Council Responsive Mode scheme which is a highly competitive call highlighting breakthrough interdisciplinary ideas. The project partners include Ardwick Climate Action, Love Old Trafford, 99�þþ�Ʒ City Council, Transport for Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ and Trafford Council.

99�þþ�Ʒ students mentor local teenagers to build confidence in applying for university

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:04:30 +0000

Sixth form pupils from three Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ schools are being mentored by students from the University's 99�þþ�Ʒ Institute of Education to help prepare them for university.

The Connect & Contribute Mentoring Scheme matches students studying on one of the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ’s Education programmes with teenagers who are thinking of applying to university but are unsure of whether higher education is for them. Under the scheme Year 12 students at Cheadle Hulme, Didsbury and Trinity High Schools have been matched with university students, most of whom are in their early 20s and many of whom are from overseas.

Dr Rui He, Senior Lecturer in Education and Dr Alex Baratta, Reader in Language and Education at the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ have helped to set up the scheme. Dr He explains:

“Connect & Contribute matches local sixth form pupils who are in the first year of studying for their A Levels with students who are already in higher education.

“The scheme allows young people who are considering applying for university, but may be the first person in their family to do so, to connect with someone who is currently attending university. Many of our students have travelled to the UK to continue their postgraduate qualification having already completed a degree in their home country, so can also give information and reassurance about moving away from home.

“We’ve found that by offering young people the opportunity to have structured but informal conversations with someone who is fairly close to them in age we can build their confidence in applying to university. We can also provide practical information on the sort of details to include on university applications and on potential career paths.”

The Connect & Contribute Scheme, which is supported by Social Responsibility Catalyst Fund from the School of Environment, Education and Development within the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, is now in its second year.

One young person who was mentored in the first year of the scheme said:

“It has been interesting and helpful discussing university topics, especially with a student who has experience in university life.”

Another commented:

“I still feel overwhelmed about going to university and living all by myself, but the meeting encouraged me to accept changes with a positive mindset.”

A MA Digital Technologies, Communication and Education degree student who was one of the scheme mentors said:

“I had the privilege of supporting Year 12 students from nearby secondary schools, helping them build confidence and offering insights into university applications, student life, and the overall university experience. It’s been a truly rewarding experience to share my journey and offer guidance to students exploring their academic futures.”

Sixth form students who were mentored in the first year of Connect & Contribute will be sitting their A Levels this year and it’s hoped that many of them will be on their way to university, with some of them possibly set to become University of 99�þþ�Ʒ students in 2026-27.

Overstretched councils ‘set up to fail’ in SEND crisis, report reveals

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

As the government considers future reforms to services for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in England, a has highlighted the pressures facing overstretched councils trying to deliver this support - and warns that many are being ‘set up to fail’ by the system.

Funded by the Nuffield Foundation, the research - led by The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ’s - examines how local authorities respond to recommendations from the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO), which investigates complaints from families when SEND provision goes wrong. It also sets out a range of recommendations to help strengthen the system.

Behind the statistics are families navigating delays, uncertainty and missed opportunities. The study highlights how waits for assessments and gaps in support can have a huge impact on young people’s education and wellbeing.

Professor Thomas, an expert in public law, led the research using interviews with SEND professionals across England alongside analysis of Ombudsman cases. His work reveals a system under huge strain, where demand has surged but resources have not kept pace with the increase.

The study found SEND complaints make up 27% of the complaints received by the LGSCO and 48% of the cases that it upholds. Common issues include delays in carrying out Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) assessments, and failures to deliver the support children are legally entitled to.

Despite these challenges, the research also points to the impact of the Ombudsman’s work. Its recommendations can help councils identify problems, strengthen accountability, and push for improvements that benefit families.

In some cases, the findings have empowered local officials to argue for more resources or rethink how services are delivered - however, the report also highlights limitations including the time and capacity required to respond to investigations, and repeated recommendations on issues councils recognise but lack the means to resolve.

A key gap identified is that the Ombudsman cannot investigate complaints directly against schools - even though they play a central role in delivering SEND support - which can leave families without clear routes to resolve issues.

The report sets out recommendations to strengthen the system, which include extending the Ombudsman’s powers to cover schools, raising awareness of joint investigations with health bodies, and improving communication between councils and the Ombudsman. Crucially, it emphasises that meaningful reform must address underlying pressures on the SEND system, including funding shortages and workforce gaps.

“This research comes at a key moment for SEND system reform,” said Ash Patel, Programme Head for Justice at the Nuffield Foundation. “The Government’s intention to improve complaints and mediation processes - enabling faster and more collaborative, resolution of disagreements and reducing the need for appeals to the SEND Tribunal - is welcome. However, the proposals are silent on the role of the LGSCO, and it remains frustratingly unclear how disputes will be avoided or how routes for appeals and complaints will operate.”

“The report points to high levels of tension between the education system and families of children with SEND; without greater attention to minimising these conflicts, it is difficult to see how existing pressures on complaints and appeals will ease.”

Attorney General makes case for international rules-based order during Harry Street Lecture

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 12:04:01 +0000

The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ was honoured to welcome Attorney General The Rt Hon Lord Hermer KC, an esteemed alumnus, to deliver the 38th Annual Harry Street Lecture on Monday 23 March 2026.

The Attorney General used his speech, titled ‘The Harry Street Legacy: Defending Rights in a Changing World’, to highlight the importance of upholding the international rules-based order as essential for the UK’s interests and security, and how human rights deliver everyday protections to working people.

The lecture series, organised by the School of Social Sciences and Department of Law, continues Harry Street’s legacy as a distinguished 99�þþ�Ʒ academic, inspiring lively debate, challenging the status quo and prompting reflection on law’s role in shaping society.

Opening the event, Vice-President and Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Fiona Devine reflected on the legacy of legal scholar Harry Street and the significance of the lecture series. Head of Law, Professor Javier Garcia Oliva, introduced Lord Hermer, emphasising his advocacy for vulnerable groups and his crucial role in defending rights amid current political and social challenges.

In his compelling address, Lord Hermer underscored Britain’s commitment to human rights and the value of a rules-based international order. He warned against the current shift by some into an age of power dictating outcomes and stressed the importance of legal frameworks in protecting all citizens, not just the privileged few.

Lord Hermer used his speech to reflect on his student days in 99�þþ�Ʒ, while sharing 99�þþ�Ʒ’s long history in advancing fundamental rights.

He discussed the importance of the European Convention on Human Rights, emphasising real-life examples where international protections have supported vulnerable communities and the vital role of personal stories in driving change.

He made the compelling case that the robust and thoughtful leadership generated by a rules-based approach, combined with a distinct British sense of fairness and justice that is fundamental to international law, serves to enhance Britain’s reputation as a cooperative and tradable nation.

The Attorney General’s speech concluded with an appeal for principle and pragmatism, reiterating his belief in the convention as a reflection of national values and a means of enabling cooperation with 46 other countries.

The evening concluded with Lord Hermer engaging with staff, students and members of the public, encouraging lively debate on the enduring importance of rights and international cooperation.

The Rt Hon Lord Hermer KC: “Shared rules make Britain more prosperous, allowing us to trade with confidence. They make us more just by underpinning protections for our citizens. And they make us more secure, by enabling cooperation with allies.”

Young people’s wellbeing is improving in Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ, major survey finds

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 12:08:50 +0000

A major survey of tens of thousands of school pupils has revealed a welcome boost in wellbeing among young people across Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ.

The latest findings from pupils in years 7, 8 and 10 show that more young people now report good levels of wellbeing than in previous years, continuing a positive trend that has developed steadily over the past five years of the programme. In 2025, 59.1% of Year 10 pupils reported good levels of wellbeing, up from 55.1% in 2024. Among younger pupils the trend is similar, with 67.7% of Year 7 pupils reporting good wellbeing compared with 64.2% last year.

The #BeeWell programme at The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ has now heard from more than 143,000 young people in Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ since it began, making it one of the largest studies of young people’s wellbeing of its kind anywhere in the world. It provides a powerful insight into how teenagers feel about their lives, schools and communities.

While the overall picture is encouraging, young people involved in the programme say the results also highlight areas where change is still needed. Each year the #BeeWell Youth Steering Group - made up of young people from across Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ - chooses the issues they believe matter most in the survey results. This year they highlighted three themes they felt were especially important: loneliness and the role communities play in tackling it, relationships with teachers and a sense of belonging at school, and whether young people feel they are gaining the skills they need to be prepared for life.

The survey shows that loneliness among young people has begun to fall since the early years of the programme, when more than half of Year 10 pupils said they felt lonely at least occasionally. By 2025 that figure had dropped to around four in ten young people. Despite this improvement, loneliness remains a significant issue for many teenagers, and the findings suggest that communities have a key role to play in helping young people feel more connected.

Only around half of young people say there are people in their local area they can trust, and just over half say they have an adult outside their home or school who listens to them. Young people involved in the programme say that having welcoming places to spend time, trusted adults nearby and stronger community connections could make a real difference to how supported young people feel.

Relationships within schools also emerged as an important theme in the data. The survey suggests that positive relationships with teachers and staff are closely linked to whether young people feel they belong at school and whether they attend regularly. Just under a third of Year 7 pupils say they have the strongest relationships with staff at school, but this falls as young people get older, dropping to around one in five by Year 10.

At the same time, the number of young people who say they feel they belong at school has risen slightly over the past year. Young people say strengthening relationships between staff and pupils could help improve both wellbeing and attendance, as feeling supported and understood at school plays a key role in whether students feel comfortable and engaged in the classroom.

Young people also wanted the report to explore whether schools are helping them prepare for life beyond education. The findings show that four in five young people believe they will have the skills and knowledge they need when they finish school, a figure that has increased since the programme first began collecting data.

Levels of hope and optimism among young people are also high, with most saying they feel positive about the future. However, only around two thirds of young people say the careers education they receive is useful. Young people involved in the programme say they would like clearer guidance about the wide range of opportunities available to them, including modern careers and different pathways after school.

#BeeWell was launched in 2019 through a partnership between The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, The Gregson Family Foundation, Anna Freud and the Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ Combined Authority. Each year the programme asks tens of thousands of secondary school pupils about their wellbeing, their schools, their communities and their hopes for the future. By sharing the results with schools, local organisations and decision makers, the programme aims to ensure young people’s voices help shape the support available to them.

“It is incredibly heartening to see this steady climb in wellbeing across our city region - the figures represent thousands of young lives trending toward a more positive future,” said Professor Neil Humphrey from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ. “These important gains likely stem from a combination of enhanced local provision and broader population shifts, but the data offers a sobering reminder of the work ahead.”

“Thank you to the 57,000 young people who shared their views this year, and to the 161 schools who made it possible,” said Councillor Mark Roberts, Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ’s portfolio lead for children and young people. “Over five years #BeeWell has now heard from more than 143,000 young people, making this the biggest exercise of its kind.

“In Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ, we have committed to improving the wellbeing of young people across the city region, and it is through #BeeWell that we can track our progress. As this year’s results show, there is a need to continue strengthening relationships in schools to improve attendance, ensuring young people remain involved in the development of our Live Well approach, and working so that every young person has a clear line of sight to good jobs, through programmes like the MBacc and Beeline.

“We will continue to act on the views of young people across our city region, and be guided by our excellent Youth Steering Group, so that every young person in Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ can thrive.”

"This is just the start. It's encouraging to see wellbeing improving, but we are at the beginning of a long journey and we’re excited to see how things continue to improve,” said Daniel & Ayisha from the #BeeWell Youth Steering Group. “There are still worrying signs in the data, particularly in the inequalities we see. There are a lot of young people worried about these topics and a lot of work to be done. It's important young people are leading the next steps and actions following the results."

You Ought To Know: Simon Industrial Fellow Karen Gabay releases podcast series about Black British music histories

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:09:24 +0000

From January to July 2025 broadcaster and producer Karen Gabay carried out research as part of a Simon Industrial Fellowship with the and the at The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ.

As part of the fellowship Karen Gabay produced a podcast series entitled ‘You Ought To Know’ that will be published across various platforms, with the first episode premiering on 23 March 2026. Each podcast captures a conversation with musicians that have had and continue to have a significant impact on British popular music. These conversations were recorded at public engagement events as well as in intimate one-on-one settings across 99�þþ�Ʒ.

You can listen to and watch the podcast episodes on various platforms. To be notified of new episodes subscribe to Karen Gabay’s and the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures’ channel.

The first podcast is a recording of Karen Gabay’s panel event on Reggae and Dub-Poetry in the UK with Lovers Rock legend , Dub Poetry great and Reggae and Hip Hop artist in the 99�þþ�Ʒ Museum in June 2025. This episode will premiere on 23 March 2026 at 3pm.

The second episode explores the history of Black British Gospel Music and was recorded in in Deansgate in May 2025. 99�þþ�Ʒ musician , gospel pioneer , Mancunian vocalist and Kingdom Choir member and founder of 99�þþ�Ʒ Inspirational Voices star in this episode to be released a few weeks later.

The third podcast episode features a conversation with renowned Soul singer-songwriter and former Ikette known for her work with Paul Weller, Peter Gabriel, and Jimmy Cliff. The recording took place across three sessions at The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ and , the iconic home of Granada Television in July 2025.

The final episode of this series was recorded in July 2025 and features 99�þþ�Ʒ singer-songwriter It explores how the musician’s alternative soul and R&B sound is influenced by Black British musicians and led him to pursue collaborations with soul great Jill Scott and UK artist Marsha Ambrosius of Floetry.

These episodes form the beginning of a series of conversations around the unsung legends and influential artists in the UK music industry. Future episodes will be released on Karen Gabay’s channels in the coming months. This bonus content includes in-depth conversations with the Queen of Northern Soul (Tainted Love) and earlier podcast guests Sylvia Tella and Luke Smith on their lives and work in the Black British music industry. It also features an intimate one-on-one discussion with who is considered a musician’s favourite and trailblazer in redefining Soul for British audiences.

Throughout her fellowship, Karen was able to build on her interest in uncovering and showcasing forgotten artefacts of Black music history and gained access the in the for further archival research. This allowed her to amplify the voices of those working within the UK music sector, in particular Black vocalists, and industry professionals, who have heavily impacted popular music in the UK and globally. She explored how different cultural spaces in 99�þþ�Ʒ have played a significant role in the lives of these musicians and their path in the music industry over the decades.

Secondary outputs of the project include Karen Gabay’s reading list and a playlist providing the musical soundtrack for exploring the recent past and present of Black British music and its influences, which can be accessed .

This Simon Industrial Fellowship laid the foundations for documenting alternative music histories in the UK. It explored and applied ethical and collaborative methods of archiving personal stories of a demographic, who have suffered from experiences of institutional exclusion, absence of fair accreditation and missing commercial opportunities due to their race or geographical location. It is taking steps towards righting wrongs of the recent past and gives talented but previously overlooked creatives a platform to tell their stories on their own terms.

As such it reasserts the relevance and significance of the John Rylands’ British Pop Archive and is adding more diverse and nonetheless equally relevant archival artefacts to its catalogue. This work aligns with the University’s renewed strategic focus on archives and just archival practices to celebrate, document and bring to the fore the stories that make 99�þþ�Ʒ the city we know today.

Rt Hon Lord Hermer KC to deliver 38th Annual Harry Street Lecture

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:53:33 +0000

, established in 1985, has featured an impressive roll call of distinguished figures, including prominent judges and policymakers. Richard Hermer KC was appointed Attorney General in 2024 and acts as chief legal advisor to the Crown, as well as overseeing Law Officers' departments. Called to the Bar in 1993 and taking silk in 2009, Hermer has spent his career championing justice, most notably representing Grenfell families and serving on the Task Force on Accountability for Crimes Committed in Ukraine in 2022.

The Attorney General, a proud alumnus of the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, returns to a city shaped by a long tradition of citizens standing up to power – from the reformers of Peterloo to the fierce campaigners of the suffrage movement.

In his upcoming lecture, he will argue that Britain’s commitment to human rights and international law are lynchpins of the UK’s national security and our personal security as human beings. Lord Hermer will draw inspiration from the legacy of Harry Street and the pioneering post-war architects who shaped the modern legal order.

At a time when conflict and instability are testing the rules-based international system, the Attorney General will make the case that the answer is not retreat, but renewal: to modernise and strengthen the institutions that safeguard our rights.

, Vice-President and Dean of Faculty of Humanities, will be giving the opening remarks alongside chair Head of Law.

Harry Street, a well-known British jurist and legal scholar, spent much of his time at the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ where he developed a keen interest in civil liberties and the law of torts. This annual lecture series celebrates the contributions of leading figures in legal and political spheres, encouraging attendees to engage with contemporary issues.

To attend, please register via the for full event details. The lecture will begin promptly at 5pm, with a networking reception following at 6pm for those attending in-person.

The University is delighted that Lord Hermer will join us, inspiring both students and academics, and looks forward to an insightful and thought-provoking evening.

Look Back: Unlocking Historical Archives with AI: Opportunities and Challenges

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 18:26:48 +0000

were delighted to host , an event addressing the opportunities and challenges that AI presents to researchers and practitioners working with archives, how AI can drive greater accessibility and utility of archives for new groups of users, and what future archives might look like as a result of further developments in AI.

Hosting speakers from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, the , and , the event aimed to generate interdisciplinary and cross-institutional conversations about AI’s place in the present and future of the archival sector.

With the University celebrating 75 years since Alan Turing’s seminal paper Computing Machinery and Intelligence this academic year, Creative 99�þþ�Ʒ also hosted the in the Samuel Alexander Glass Corridor. Attendees of ‘Unlocking Historical Archives with AI’ were invited to attend a private viewing of the exhibition, which spotlighted 20 early career researchers from across the University exemplifying creative research approaches to AI.

The event began with an introduction by Creative 99�þþ�Ʒ Deputy-Director, . A round of lightning talks commenced with (Senior Lecturer of History and Library & Archive Studies), who provided an overview of how AI-powered tools such as , a cooperatively run transcription tool, are transforming the accessibility of archives, though with significant consequences for climate, data scale and research practice.

Subsequently, (Senior Lecturer in Text Mining and Creative 99�þþ�Ʒ Theme Lead for ) presented her research on how natural language processing (NLP) can help to make ‘community-generated digital content’ (CGDC) more searchable and queryable. Focusing on the , Dr Batista-Navarro presented an approach to CGDC which uses NLP to recover valuable information often lost in its metadata.

(Professor of British History) then gave a historian’s perspective by highlighting the work of the OHOS/99�þþ�Ʒ Histories . The ongoing project seeks to reinstate Moss Side’s Champs Camp, the UK’s first Black-led boxing gym, as a significant chapter in Black British history. Prof Barker highlighted the ethical considerations of using AI in approaching CGDC, with there being both opportunities to uncover hidden histories alongside ethical risks regarding copyright and data protection. Overall, Prof Barker concluded that researchers must take an informed, empathetic approach to using AI in archives.

An interdisciplinary perspective was once again provided by (Creative 99�þþ�Ʒ Research Associate), who gave a demonstration of the methodological approach used in the Creative 99�þþ�Ʒ-supported . Dr Flavel gave insight into how AI models can be used to annotate multimodal data in the form of TV shows. By analysing audio, video and subtitles, researchers can conduct large-scale analysis of on-screen representation (such as Bechdel tests) with greater accuracy than simply analysing screenplays.

The round of presentations was concluded by (Professor of Italian and Director of the John Rylands Research Institute and Library), Principal Investigator of ‘’. Prof Armstrong presented takeaways from this ongoing project, which uses cutting-edge machine learning computational technologies and image matching to study the material features of the early printed page for almost the entire body of prints of Dante’s ‘Divine Comedy’.

The lightning talks were followed by a panel discussion featuring Dr Ben Wiggins, Dr Riza Batista-Navarro, Prof Hannah Barker, Prof Lorna Hughes (The University of Glasgow) and Rachel Hetherington (99�þþ�Ʒ Histories), chaired by Dr Constance Smith. The panellists responded to some of the provocations raised in the lightning talks and further discussed what the future of archives might look like. An audience Q&A followed the panel discussion.

(Head of ) concluded the day’s programme with a talk on how the Library’s digital archives and digitisation services could enable further research innovation in this rapidly developing interdisciplinary field.

To stay informed about Creative 99�þþ�Ʒ’s work in the CreaTech theme and our other events and activities please .

New Music Takes Centre Stage as Sir John Tomlinson Performs with Hallé Youth Orchestra and Choir

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 18:15:43 +0000

and , Lecturer in Composition at the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, both spent their formative years in rural East Lancashire, Oswaldtwistle and Bacup respectively, and their shared Lancastrian heritage and dialect inspired them to work together on new music that celebrates this region. The Wanderer – the commissioning of which was funded by the Vaughan Williams Foundation – is a song cycle for bass soloist, orchestra, and choir setting four poems by 19th century writer Edwin Waugh, who was often referred to as the .

Edwin Waugh wrote poetry in the distinct dialect of East Lancashire. Each song paints a picture of a wandering figure reflecting on first love, city versus rural life, the pain of loss, and the healing power of nature.

Sir John Tomlinson and the Hallé Youth Orchestra and Choir, conducted by Euan Shields, will premiere The Wanderer at Bridgewater Hall in 99�þþ�Ʒ on Sunday 22 March.

Information about the upcoming premiere can be found here:

Find out more about Josh Brown’s works here:

Ethnic land rights fail to provide Afro-Colombians with economic security

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 15:00:39 +0000

The legal rights designed to protect Afro-Colombian communities are not lifting them out of economic precarity - and are leaving them vulnerable to the illegal drug trade and illicit mining as a result - according to new research from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ.

For decades, Colombia’s Pacific coast has been a battleground for ‘extractive capitalism’ - a world of illegal gold mining, industrial palm oil and drug smuggling. In 1993, a landmark law granted these communities collective property rights, celebrating them as ‘guardians of the forest’ and defenders of a traditional, sustainable way of life.

However, after four months of fieldwork and interviews with community leaders and activists, researcher Caroline Cornier found that the identity politics that help to secure these rights tend to create a ‘conceptual and practical dead end’.

According to the study - published in the journal - by defining Afro-Colombian identity solely through traditional practices like subsistence fishing and small-scale farming, the rights ignore communities’ effective entanglement with the global capitalist economy as agricultural producers, providers of primary goods, wage labourers and consumers.

"I’m black, I need a territory...it is on the territory where we become what we are," said one community leader in Yurumangui, a village in the Colombian Pacific region that has fought fiercely to remain a bastion against coca and mining. Yet, even in such resilient places, the pressure is mounting - the article finds that the rights’ prioritisation of environmental protection over communities’ economic survival has been creating disillusion among community members.

As a result, to buy necessities - such as medicine, clothes or the powerful boat engines required to navigate the region's rivers - many are driven towards coca cultivation and illegal mining. As one local priest in the violence-torn region of Tumaco noted, "there would be no 200-horsepower motors without cocaine".

The study compares the peaceful but struggling Yurumangui with the ‘culture of fear’ in Alto Mira y Frontera, where community leaders have been forced into exile or assassinated for resisting the encroachment of palm oil and paramilitary groups. In these ‘entangled landscapes’, the legal title to the land offers little protection against firmly established resource flows and armed control.

"Conceived as a conservation mechanism, ethnic land rights have become a bit of a Faustian bargain," said Caroline Cornier. “While the rights have helped to mobilise communities along their cultural ‘inside world’, they struggle to provide them with a sustainable bridge to the ‘outside world’ of the global economy.”

DOI:

The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ becomes lead UK-based coordinating institution for UK-China Humanities Alliance

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:27:54 +0000

The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ has been appointed as the UK-based Coordinating Team for the , a unique forum of ten British and seven Chinese universities with outstanding reputations in the Arts and Humanities.

The Secretariat is housed at the Institute for World Literatures and Cultures (IWLC), Tsinghua University where the Dean of IWLC, Prof YAN Haiping, serves as the Director of the Executive Council and the Secretary-General and Prof YANG Bin, Vice President of Tsinghua University, serves as the Chair of the Alliance. The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ will coordinate UK-based activities and work closely with the British Council to support UK-China Humanities collaborations.

The announcement was made at the UKCHA Executive Council on 7 December 2025. The President of the UKCHA, Professor Yang Bin welcomed the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ as the new UK-based Coordinating Team, following a recommendation from Deputy Director, Professor Wong Suk Ying (Chinese University of Hong Kong) and the endorsement of Professor Yan Haiping.

She added: “Separate from the UKCHA, the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ has research partnerships with Tsinghua University, Peking University, Fudan University, Wuhan University and Chinese University of Hong Kong. Becoming the lead UK-based Coordinating Team reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting high quality, impactful research between world-leading Humanities academics.”

Established in 2016, The UKCHA’s aim is to intensify international cooperation in Humanities. This includes joint work on research and publication, staff and research exchanges, and connections with specialist arts and cultural institutions.

The announcement has been made as part of a high-level delegation from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ to Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong. Led by Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor and including a delegation of academic and university staff, the visit is connecting with alumni, donors, partners and universities.

The visits are in conjunction with the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ China Centre and the East Asia Centre, based in Hong Kong and will also include a graduation ceremony in Shanghai and launch events for the University’s fundraising and volunteering campaign, Challenge Accepted.

Leading Public Procurement Innovation Expert Rikesh Shah Appointed Simon Industrial & Professional Fellow at University of 99�þþ�Ʒ

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:37:05 +0000

The 99�þþ�Ʒ Institute of Innovation Research (MIoIR) at Alliance 99�þþ�Ʒ Business School is delighted to announce the appointment of Rikesh Shah as a Simon Industrial & Professional Fellow. Shah, who serves as Head of Innovation at the Connected Places Catapult, which hosts the Innovation Procurement Empowerment Centre (IPEC), will work with MIoIR to strengthen the bridge between academic research and the practical transformation of public procurement across the UK.

The fellowship comes at a crucial moment as government seeks to leverage its £400 billion annual public procurement spend to drive growth across the eight Industrial Strategy sectors. Shah brings extensive experience translating innovation policy into practice, having previously served as Head of Open Innovation at Transport for London, where he created TfL’s first Innovation Hub and oversaw its globally recognised open‑data programme partnering with some of the best innovators, generating an estimated £130 million per year in economic value.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Rikesh to MIoIR,” said Professor Elvira Uyarra, who leads research on innovation policy and public procurement at the Institute.

At IPEC, Shah leads national efforts to transform how public procurement drives innovation, working directly with local authorities and public bodies to upskill buyers in innovation‑friendly approaches. The fellowship will deepen connections between this practitioner network and MIoIR’s research on demand‑side innovation policy, procurement, and regional development.

Shah has already begun contributing to teaching, delivering a lecture on the “Innovation and Place” module (MSc Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship), offering students firsthand insight into how public agencies can shape markets, support scaling firms, and stimulate innovation.

“The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ has been at the forefront of research on public procurement as an innovation policy tool for over two decades,” said Shah. “I’m excited to contribute practitioner perspectives and help translate research insights into tools that public sector buyers can use immediately. The combination of MIoIR’s analytical rigour with IPEC’s practitioner networks creates a powerful platform for impact.”

Reluctance to rely on China for green technology could slow climate action

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

New research suggests that concerns about relying too heavily on Chinese manufacturing are shaping climate policy - and could even delay the adoption of green technologies around the world.

The study by Dr James Jackson from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, working alongside Dr Mathias Larsen from the London School of Economics, examined how China’s rapid rise as a clean-technology powerhouse has transformed the global energy transition.

While Chinese investment and industrial policy have helped reduce the cost of renewable energy technologies, the research - published in the journal - found that geopolitical tensions are increasingly influencing how governments respond.

For households and businesses, the impact of China’s manufacturing boom has been clear - solar panels, electric vehicle batteries and other low-carbon technologies are far cheaper than they were a decade ago. According to the researchers, this is partly because China has built enormous production capacity through long-term industrial planning, state investment and support for domestic manufacturers.

Those policies helped create the global supply chains that many countries now rely on to roll out renewable energy systems, making the technologies needed for climate action more accessible worldwide - but the study argues that this success has also created new political tensions.

As Chinese firms dominate key sectors of the clean technology economy, governments elsewhere are increasingly concerned about dependence on overseas supply chains for critical infrastructure. Solar panels on rooftops, batteries in electric cars and components used in renewable energy systems often trace back to factories in China.

According to the researchers, this has changed how climate policy is debated. Instead of focusing only on environmental targets, policymakers are also asking where the industries of the green transition will be located - and which countries will benefit economically.

The result is a push in some countries to build domestic clean technology industries, including batteries and electric vehicles. Governments in Europe and North America are investing heavily in new factories and supply chains to try to compete with China’s industrial strength.

While these policies aim to boost economic security and protect local jobs, they can also create tensions in climate policy. Producing technologies domestically can be more expensive and slower than importing them from established global suppliers, creating a difficult balancing act.

“The fastest way to cut emissions may be to deploy the cheapest technologies available, many of which are produced in China - however, political pressure to reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing may encourage governments to prioritise local production, even if this delays deployment” said Dr Jackson. “As the world works to replace fossil fuels with renewable energy, the success of climate action may depend not only on technological innovation, but also on how countries manage growing competition over the industries that power the transition.

DOI:

Infected Blood Inquiry Memorial goes to University of 99�þþ�Ʒ

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:43:40 +0000

The formal handover of the Inquiry Memorial to the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ will take place on Tuesday 24 March. The University is providing a permanent home for the Inquiry Memorial.

The Inquiry Memorial is located in a central location that has limited space so we will livestream the formal handover for Inquiry participants who would like to follow online or watch the recording afterwards.

The livestream will begin at 14.00 on Tuesday 24 March. Sir Brian Langstaff will make remarks as part of the event. If you wish to watch the livestream, please go . The recording will be available on the Inquiry website.

From Wednesday 25 March, it will be possible to visit the Inquiry Memorial at the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ. The Inquiry Memorial is in the Old Quadrangle of the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, on the ground floor of the Whitworth Building which is open weekdays 7am – 5:30pm. The Inquiry Memorial is also visible from the Old Quadrangle without entering the Whitworth Building.

Five 99�þþ�Ʒ academics become Fellows of the Academy of Social Sciences

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:34:02 +0000

The Academy of Social Sciences has elected five experts from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ as Fellows in recognition of their significant contributions to social science, highlighting the relevance of the social sciences in understanding and addressing the many varied societal challenges facing the UK and the world today.

Professor Lucy Frith is a leading bioethicist whose work spans socio-legal studies and health research. She is internationally recognised for her work in empirical bioethics and her research on the social and ethical implications of reproductive donation, and the governance of emerging reproductive technologies.

Lucy is Co-Director of the University’s Centre for Social Ethics & Policy, and she serves on the Executive Committee of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE). She has held visiting professorships at the Centre for Medical Ethics and Law at The University of Hong Kong and at Charles University, Prague, and is Co-Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Medical Ethics.

“I am delighted to be elected a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences, and I am grateful to the Society of Socio-Legal Studies for the nomination,” said Lucy. “I am looking forward to working with colleagues across disciplines and further integrating bioethical analysis into the social sciences, as such interdisciplinary research is increasingly vital to addressing complex global challenges.”

Professor of Politics James Pattison is an international political theorist specialising in ethical issues relating to peace and conflict. His research examines moral responsibility in war, including humanitarian intervention, private military force and economic sanctions, with his current work focusing on ethical responses to rising global authoritarianism and the challenges posed by a shifting international order.

James is the author of several influential books that have shaped both academic scholarship and policy debates on global peace and security. His work is widely recognised across political theory and international relations, contributing significantly to contemporary debates on war and intervention.

“I’m delighted and honoured to receive this award,” said James. “It means a lot to me to become a Fellow of the Academy of the Social Sciences and I look forward to working to promote the social sciences further in my work, highlighting the vital role of social science in shaping the ideas and ethical frameworks that guide global responses to war, authoritarianism, and mass atrocities.”

Professor of Innovation Studies Elvira Uyarra is a leading expert on innovation policy, regional development, and public procurement. Her research examines how public policy can foster innovation, support economic transformation, and enable sustainability transitions.

Elvira has played a key role in major interdisciplinary research programmes and contributed extensively to academic and policy debates on innovation and regional growth. Her work has helped inform government strategies on innovation-led development and strengthening regional innovation systems.

“I’m honoured to be elected a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences,” said Elvira. “This recognition reflects not just my own work, but the value of collaborative research on innovation, place, and public policy. I look forward to continuing to contribute to the social sciences community.”

Professor of Politics and Development Sam Hickey is a leading scholar of the political economy of development. His research examines how political institutions, governance and elite incentives shape poverty reduction, social protection and inclusive growth, particularly in Africa.

Sam has played a major leadership role in international research programmes, including the Effective States and Inclusive Development Research Centre, and has advised organisations such as the World Bank and UNICEF. He has also contributed to influential books and policy debates on governance and development, helping shape contemporary approaches to inclusive development.

Professor of International Relations Oliver Richmond is a leading figure in peace and conflict studies. His research focuses on peacebuilding, international intervention, and post-conflict political order, and he is known for developing critical approaches that emphasise local agency and “hybrid peace.”

Oliver has authored numerous influential books which have helped reshape scholarly and policy understandings of peacebuilding. His work has had a major global impact on debates about how sustainable peace is formed and maintained.

99�þþ�Ʒ conference to re-examine Falklands/Malvinas conflict nearly 45 years later

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 11:44:05 +0000

On Thursday 16th April and Friday 17th April, The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ is hosting a major conference about the Falklands/Malvinas conflict.

44 years have passed, but the conflict still resonates deeply in both the UK and Argentina. Once a little-known far-flung archipelago for the British, the islands became emblematic of the UK’s pride and military strength in the face of declining post-imperial influence. For Argentines, the islands remain a unifying symbol of national identity under ‘la causa Malvinas’.

Now, as the 45th anniversary approaches, it enables us to pose and address histories, legacies and a number of questions through multiple lenses: What is the importance and legacy of the conflict forty-four years on? How have scholarly and popular works regarding the conflict and the continued territorial dispute been represented since? What is the current shape and future scope of a nascent Falklands/Malvinas scholarship?

This conference will be particularly interested in, but not limited to, media coverage and military aspects of the conflict and thereafter.

The event hopes to build upon the success of the last conference held at The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ in 2019, and provides an opportunity for veterans from both sides, experienced and independent scholars, early career academics and postgraduate students, to share their ideas and present their research in a supportive and interdisciplinary environment.

The event seeks to draw upon researchers from across the North-West and beyond, and possibly to initiate a ‘Falklands/Malvinas Network’ that might consider further projects and publications as the 45th anniversary of the conflict draws near.

Presenting the conflict from both sides, the conference has keynote speakers including Professor Sir Lawrence Freedman, Emeritus Professor of War Studies at King’s College London, who is a leading authority on strategic theory, international history and nuclear policy, and has served as the official historian of the Falklands Campaign and adviser on major UK defence inquiries.

Also speaking will be Professor Virginia Gamba - a senior United Nations official and Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict who has more than three decades of global experience in disarmament, peacebuilding, and human security - and Rear Admiral Jeremy Larken DSO, a Cold War submariner and senior Royal Navy commander who played a key operational role in the Falklands Campaign as Captain of HMS Fearless and Chief of Staff to Commodore Michael Clapp, the amphibious Maritime Force Commander, bringing firsthand expertise in crisis management and high-level military leadership.

Together, they represent an exceptional breadth of insight into warfare, diplomacy and strategic decision-making at the highest levels.

The full conference programme and ticket information can be found at , or you can follow @fm44conference on X (Twitter) and @fm44conference.bsky.social on Bluesky.

Conference sponsors: British Commission for Military History (BCMH), Society for Latin American Studies (SLAS) and The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ’s Student Enhancement Fund.

Why community voices could make or break world’s forest restoration plans

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:19:54 +0000

A new study has revealed a critical gap between global promises to restore forests and what is happening on the ground for the communities who depend on, manage and care for them.

The research, led by researchers from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ and published in the journal , is based on a detailed assessment of national policies in Mexico. It found that while governments are increasingly committed to restoring ecosystems and tackling climate change, indigenous peoples and local communities are recognised in policy but rarely given any meaningful decision-making power in restoration projects.

Forest Landscape Restoration is seen as a key solution to biodiversity loss, climate change and environmental degradation worldwide. Yet the study shows that even when policies acknowledge the importance of community participation and rights, they often lack the institutional mechanisms needed to translate these commitments into real authority on the ground.

The researchers reviewed 24 government policies created between 1988 and 2024 to see how well they support forest restoration and whether local communities are truly involved in decisions. They found that while many policies talk about protecting nature and improving people’s lives, far fewer actually give communities a real say in what happens. Only a small number - less than 30% - treat them as equal partners, and just one gives them full control over restoration decisions.

This gap matters because communities already manage large areas of forest globally. In Mexico alone, around 60% of forests operate under community-based land tenure, but relatively fewer than 6% of documented restoration projects report meaningful participation beyond consultation. Without community leadership, restoration efforts risk being less equitable and less effective.

The study also identified structural barriers that limit progress, including fragmented coordination between government agencies, limited institutional capacity, short-term funding cycles, and insufficient guidance for implementation at local level. These factors make it difficult to turn ambitious national commitments into practical action within communities and landscapes.

At the same time, the research highlights opportunities. Many policies increasingly recognise Indigenous rights, traditional ecological knowledge and the potential for restoration to support livelihoods and climate resilience. Strengthening cross-sector collaboration, funding and governance could help bridge the gap between policy ambition and real-world outcomes.

“You can recognise indigenous rights in policy, mandate consultation, and still never transfer decision-making power to the people who manage these forests,” said lead researcher Mariana Hernandez-Montilla. “Our research shows this is exactly what's happening - consultation is treated as participation, but it's not the same as authority.”

Although focused on Mexico, the findings have global relevance as countries accelerate restoration pledges and international initiatives led by organisations such as the United Nations. The researchers hope their work will help policymakers to design fairer, more effective restoration strategies, ensuring that efforts to restore nature also strengthen communities and deliver lasting benefits for people and the planet.

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University of 99�þþ�Ʒ to lead accelerated research project tackling violence against women and girls

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:18:01 +0000

Content warning: References to sexual violence, domestic abuse, sexual harassment and homicide.

Violence against women and girls (VAWG) remains a widespread and underreported issue across the UK. According to official statistics, more than 200,000 sexual offences were recorded by UK police in England and Wales in 2024/25, and 2.2 million women aged 16+ experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2025.

In response to this crisis, – a new project hosted by , and – has been awarded £625,000 from to accelerate national efforts to prevent and respond to VAWG. Bringing together leading researchers, practitioners and policymakers, RISE will feed in to the delivery of the and recent which aim to halve VAWG within a decade.

The project will consist of four team‑led research projects covering primary prevention (working with men and boys), women’s safety in public spaces, management of domestic abuse perpetrators and child-parent homicides. RISE will also provide to enable researchers and practitioners across policing, third sector and policymaking to collaborate and pilot new approaches.

RISE draws on the expertise of and , whose influential research on abuse of women runners was recently cited in Parliament, , a leading authority on domestic abuse and masculinities, and , co‑director of and specialist in crime data analysis.

The project is further strengthened by NSEC and SALIENT Principal Investigator , who will support the team in securing complex multi‑agency research data, and privacy expert and SPRITE+ director, who will lead stakeholder engagement and lead an in-depth evidence review of primary prevention strategies.

More information on RISE

Website:
Email: spriteplus@manchester.ac.uk

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In an emergency call 999. If it’s unsafe to speak and you call from a mobile, press 55 and you will be transferred to a police call handler trained to deal with ‘silent calls’.

‘The Plastic Divide’ - how carrier bag bans impact the poorest communities

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:11:00 +0000

A new study from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ has shed light on an unexpected consequence of plastic bag bans in East Africa, and why well-intentioned environmental laws may actually be making life harder for the people they aim to protect.

Anthropologist Dr Declan Murray spent nine months in Tanzania’s capital city Dar es Salaam, following the everyday journeys of plastic bags from small shops and street food stalls to people’s homes and workplaces. Tanzania banned plastic carrier bags in 2019, joining more than 120 countries around the world attempting to tackle plastic waste – but six years later, the ban has produced surprising results.

Despite the law, small thin plastic pouches - used to package everyday essentials like flour, oil and cooked snacks - remain a lifeline for millions of residents. For many families who live day-to-day, buying small amounts of food is the only affordable option. Without these cheap pouches, there is no practical way for shopkeepers to portion out food.

The research - which has been published in the - shows that the ban has removed large plastic bags from supermarkets and wealthier neighbourhoods, but the poorest communities have been left with few real alternatives. Paper, cloth and woven bags are too expensive, too big, or not suited to carrying wet or hot foods. As a result, small plastic pouches continue to circulate quietly, helping people to manage the daily “search for life” - a Swahili phrase many Dar es Salaam residents use to describe the struggle to earn enough money each day.

The study introduces the idea of “The Plastic Divide” - the gap between those who can easily switch away from plastics, and those whose livelihoods depend on them. Well-off residents can afford reusable bags and buy pre-packaged goods from supermarkets, but low-income families rely heavily on small shops, street food vendors and local markets - all of which depend on these plastic pouches to function.

It also highlights how many people make a living from plastics. Small-scale manufacturers, market sellers and bicycle-riding wholesalers all depend on selling the pouches. Others reuse plastic creatively - as fuel for cooking fires, rain protection, or even as a way to keep insects away from food. For these groups, plastics are not simply waste - they are tools for survival.

“Plastic pollution is a real problem, but these findings show that bans which don’t consider everyday life can hit the poorest communities hardest,” said Dr Murray. “People aren’t using plastic because they want to harm the environment - they’re using it because it’s the only option that works for them.”

The study raises important questions for governments, charities and environmental groups worldwide. It suggests that reducing plastic waste must go hand-in-hand with supporting people’s daily needs - whether through affordable alternatives, changes to food supply systems or involving low-income communities in designing solutions.

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Northern researchers and Whitehall unite to tackle the SEND crisis through connected data

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:22:39 +0000

On the day the government published its Every child achieving and thriving white paper on reforms to the schools and SEND systems in England, policymakers, researchers, clinicians and frontline practitioners gathered in 99�þþ�Ʒ to demonstrate how connected data can turn that ambition into reality.

The Child of the North Data Showcase, held at the Whitworth Art Gallery at The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, brought together nearly 100 delegates from NHS trusts, local authorities, universities, and the voluntary sector to examine how linking data across education, health, and social care can get children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities the support they need earlier, and more effectively.

The event was convened by Child of the North, the N8 Centre of Excellence for Computationally Intensive Research, and the Northern Health Science Alliance, in partnership with the Centre for Young Lives and in collaboration with the Department for Education, the Department for Health and Social Care, and the Ministry of Justice.

Child of the North has spent several years convening researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to analyse the evidence on children’s outcomes across the North of England. That evidence has played a significant role in shaping national SEND reform. The Independent Neurodivergence Task and Finish Group (NDTFG) report published alongside the white paper draws heavily on Child of the North analyses, and informs both the Schools white paper and the government’s SEND reform consultation, Putting Children and Young People First. The Child of the North Data Showcase builds on this momentum by demonstrating how connected data can now deliver the practical change the system needs.

Professor Mark Mon-Williams of the Child of the North Leadership Group said: “The Schools White Paper has set a bold ambition as we seek to build a country that works for all children and young people. Today's event brought together a coalition of academics, clinicians and policymakers to explore how we can support these ambitions through effective use of connected administrative data. The day was truly inspirational and will ensure that government can rely on the best possible evidence as it addresses the SEND crisis.”

Presentations came from major northern data programmes including Born in Bradford, Connected Bradford, #BeeWell, and the Children Growing Up in Liverpool cohort, alongside research collaborations funded by NIHR and the ESRC, including the Health Determinants Research Collaborations, and the ESRC Vulnerabilities and Policing Futures Research Centre, whose involvement underlines that unmet SEND need has consequences reaching well beyond education into the criminal justice system. Clinical perspectives came from NHS trusts including Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust and 99�þþ�Ʒ University NHS Foundation Trust.

For too many children with SEND, needs go unidentified until crisis point. Families describe battling complex, fragmented systems. Support arrives too late. The evidence-backed argument made today is that when services can see a fuller picture of a child's life, they can intervene earlier, reduce crisis responses, and improve outcomes that last a lifetime.

Haroon Chowdry, Chief Executive of the Centre for Young Lives, who chaired the event, said: “We were delighted to support this data showcase. It pulled together a vast array of ground-breaking initiatives to show that data linkage and connected public services are increasingly prevalent, and are already generating rich insights to inform SEND and other policies."

A short report for national government will be produced following the event, drawing on the insights of all participants. It will set out what linked administrative data can achieve, what infrastructure already exists across the North to support it, and what policy action is needed to scale it nationally.

The Business Case for Nature: Confronting Biodiversity Risk

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 13:05:15 +0000

Magnitude of challenge

Professor Nalin Thakkar opened the event, introducing keynote speakers Andrea Ledward CBE, Director of International Biodiversity and Climate at DEFRA, and Dr Katie Leach, Biodiversity Specialist at IPBES. Both speakers emphasised that biodiversity loss is accelerating and requires a collective response. Ledward highlighted the magnitude of the challenge, while Leach questioned how we can collaborate effectively to create real change. Their insights underscored the need for alignment among scientific evidence, policy goals, and business efforts to accelerate nature recovery.

Panel insights

An expert panel session led by KatieJo Luxton, Director of Global Conservation at the RSPB, brought together a range of perspectives from across sectors. Panellists included Dr Tom Burditt, Chief Executive of the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, 99�þþ�Ʒ and North Merseyside; Javed Siddiqi, Senior Lecturer at Alliance 99�þþ�Ʒ Business School; Anna Gilchrist, Lecturer in Ecology at the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences; Jo Harrison, Director of Environment, Planning and Innovation at United Utilities; and Ed Pollard, UK Business & Biodiversity Forum CIC.

Nature connectedness

The panel focused on the realities of landscape restoration, emphasising its incremental, place-based nature whilst balancing with the role of technology and data, while highlighting the importance of understanding ecological systems rather than relying on simplistic solutions. Gilchrist also reflected on the human dimension of biodiversity recovery, noting that “we need to invest deeply in nature connectedness”, encouraging people’s love of nature to cross boundaries and extend into the workplace.

Humanities interpretation

A recurring theme across these contributions was the importance of communication. Not just more communication, but clearer, accessible messaging that bridges disciplines and facilitates a shared language among organisations.

As the event was concluded by Fiona Divine, discussions explored the role of the humanities in this effort. While science provides the evidence, the humanities help interpret and turn it into action. This interdisciplinary view emphasised that biodiversity recovery is not solely a scientific or technical challenge but fundamentally a human one.

MIE Academic Recognised in International Top 50 Voices in Higher Education 2026 List

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:35:37 +0000

Dr Miri Firth, Senior Lecturer in Education at the 99�þþ�Ʒ Institute of Education (MIE) in the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ's School of Environment, Education and Development, has been recognised internationally as one of the Top 50 Voices to Follow in Higher Education for 2026 by . The list celebrates educators, researchers and leaders whose work is shaping the future of higher education globally. Miri’s inclusion reflects her national and international leadership in employability education and flexible assessment. As Academic Lead for Assessment in the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ's Flexible Learning Programme, she has driven institutional reform through the development of 99�þþ�Ʒ’s Assessment Toolkit, now supporting thousands of staff and students across the University.

Nationally, she led the QAA-funded project, collaborating with the University of York, UCL and Imperial College London to explore student choice in assessment design. The outputs from this work have been adopted by multiple universities and have contributed to sector-wide conversations around inclusion, flexibility and future-focused learning.

Dr Firth also chairs the GFI (formerly AGCAS) , supporting careers professionals and academics across the UK in enhancing employability pathways for creative graduates.

In addition to this recognition, she was named in the for 2026, highlighting the reach and impact of her scholarship and public engagement.

This achievement reinforces MIE’s national and international standing in educational leadership, assessment innovation and graduate employability.

What the economic impact of Hurricane Katrina means for businesses today

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:19:10 +0000

When Hurricane Katrina struck the USA in 2005, nearly 2000 people lost their lives and the cost of the catastrophe exceeded $100 billion. Now, 21 years later, new research from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ has found that Katrina left another, less visible legacy long after the storm clouds had cleared.

The study, published in the , has revealed that in the months and years after Katrina, many businesses in affected areas began paying their suppliers later than usual. These delays had real consequences – fewer jobs, more business closures and financial stress spreading from one company to the next.

Using detailed data on individual business locations across the Gulf Coast region of the USA, Professor Viet Dang, Professor Ning Gao and Dr Hongge Lin from Alliance 99�þþ�Ʒ Business School tracked how payment behaviour changed after Katrina. They focused on whether companies paid their bills on time - something that matters deeply to suppliers operating in competitive markets who rely on steady payments to cover wages, rent and materials.

The results were notable - businesses located in counties hit hardest by Katrina were significantly more likely to delay payments to their suppliers. On average, payment reliability fell by more than four percent, which may not sound dramatic, but delays of this magnitude can tip the balance for businesses with tight margins and weekly payrolls.

Companies that delayed payments were more likely to cut jobs or shut down entirely. Their suppliers – often businesses located far from the hurricane zone – also suffered, reporting weaker cash flow and poorer financial health. In other words, a storm in Louisiana could hurt a supplier in another state, simply because money arrived late.

The findings highlight payment delays within supply chains as a key cause of Katrina’s widespread and lasting economic footprint. They also underscore the importance of corporate financial management across the supply chain.

“In a fast-moving economy, companies must manage their cash flows effectively,” said Professor Gao. “Punctual payment not only enables companies to meet their bill-payment obligations but also directly affects their credit scores and borrowing capacity, as suppliers and lenders closely monitor payment behaviour to assess financial health.”

The lessons are especially relevant today. Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and more severe, from hurricanes along the US coast to wildfires and floods elsewhere. Modern businesses are deeply interconnected, meaning that disruption in one place can quickly spread to many others, affecting even workers and communities that never experienced the events directly.

“Faster access to emergency funding, more resilient supply chains and better disaster planning could help prevent payment delays from turning into job losses and business failures.”

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New EU Report on Non-Discrimination by Law experts at the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:30:59 +0000

EU equality law prohibits not only direct discrimination but also giving instructions to discriminate against others. This rule applies broadly, covering all forms of discrimination and many areas of social and professional life. Yet despite its wide reach, the meaning and practical implications of “instructions to discriminate” remain unclear. There is no case law from the EU courts clarifying the concept, and decisions at national level are limited and rarely examined in depth.

As a result, important questions remain unanswered. These include who is protected by the rule, who can be held responsible when discrimination occurs following an instruction, and what kind of relationship must exist between the person giving the instruction and the person who follows it. Different EU Member States have taken different approaches to these issues.

This report, authored by and , seeks to improve understanding of EU law on instructions to discriminate and to clarify both its limits and its potential. It offers practical guidance and recommendations for strengthening the concept at EU level, alongside a comparative overview of how all 27 EU Member States regulate and apply this form of discrimination in their national legal systems.

AI could rebalance power between people and the services they use

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:39:53 +0000

Artificial intelligence could help people who feel overwhelmed, excluded or disadvantaged when dealing with everyday tasks like paying energy bills or booking healthcare appointments, according to a new study involving researchers from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ.

The research - published in the - explored how “personal AI agents” could work on behalf of individuals, helping them to navigate complex systems, make better decisions and gain more control.

Vulnerability or overwhelm can affect almost anyone, whether through illness, financial pressure, language barriers or difficulty interpreting complex information.

The research team - including experts from The Universities of 99�þþ�Ʒ, Queensland, Oxford, Cambridge and Heriot-Watt - argue that advances in AI create an opportunity to rebalance power between organisations and the people who rely on their services. Instead of technology being used mainly by companies, personal AI tools could act in individuals’ interests, making purchases and helping them to compare options and understand information.

In the cases of an older person choosing an energy tariff, a patient managing multiple appointments or a parent navigating the benefits system, a personal AI assistant could interpret information, suggest choices and communicate decisions with service providers on the user’s behalf.

The study brings together research on customer experience, vulnerability and emerging AI technologies to show how this could work in practice, proposing a framework for designing systems that support people when they feel they lack control.

Researchers say the key is not just smarter tools, but ones that genuinely represent users’ interests. Personal AI agents could improve access to services, reduce stress and simplify everyday decisions.

Four possible roles for personal AI are outlined, from a “service organiser” coordinating everyday tasks to a “protective” system safeguarding users’ interests and flagging risks. Together, these approaches could help ensure fairer treatment and clearer information when interacting with companies and public services.

“As digital systems increasingly shape daily life, the real promise of AI may lie not in enabling large organisations to make incremental efficiency gains, but in helping individual people achieve greater confidence and control in their lives,” said Dr Jamie Burton, Professor of Marketing at Alliance 99�þþ�Ʒ Business School.

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CreaTech Network 2026: Exploring Creativity & AI in Entertainment, Heritage, and Open Tools

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 15:48:14 +0000

The CreaTech Network series returns in 2026, led by in collaboration with and the . This three-part event series, running between February and June 2026, is designed to strengthen connections across the CreaTech ecosystem in Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ and the North West, and to support collaboration between the University and the wider creative and cultural industries community.

The theme of this year’s series is Creativity and AI, exploring how artificial intelligence is shaping creative and cultural practice. Across a series of in-person events, the programme brings together researchers, creatives, technologists, and industry partners to examine emerging opportunities and challenges. The 2026 series will focus on AI in entertainment, cultural heritage, and free and open-source tools.

If you’re curious about what’s coming in 2026, take a look back at previous CreaTech Network events from 2024 and 2025, which explored AI across music, publishing, fashion, and other creative areas. Those past programmes show the exciting mix of ideas, collaborations, and experiments that have shaped the Network and give a hint of the conversations and creativity to expect this year.

Creativity and AI: Entertainment

🗓️🕒 Thursday 26 February l 14:30 - 17:00
📍Contact Theatre, Space 0, Oxford Rd, 99�þþ�Ʒ M15 6JA

The first event of the 2026 CreaTech Network Series will focus on how AI is currently being used across the entertainment sector, particularly in film, television and games. It will look at practical uses of AI in areas such as animation, screen production and creative workflows, alongside some of the challenges this raises for creative practice.

Hear from academic and industry speakers in short lightning talks, followed by a panel session and an open Q&A inviting audience participation.

Creativity and AI: Cultural Heritage

🗓️🕒 Thursday 30 April l 14:30 - 17:00

The growing use of AI in cultural heritage raises important questions around data, ethics and partnership. This event examines how galleries, libraries, archives and museums are working with AI, and the implications for practice.

Creativity and AI: Free and Open-source AI Tools and Platforms

🗓️🕒 Thursday 25 June l 14:30 - 17:00

What role do free and open-source AI tools play in creative and cultural practice today? This event examines how open technologies enable collaboration and shared innovation.

Nature as therapy: research shows how the outdoors can help us to heal

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 16:33:36 +0000

Nature-based therapy may help people to find hope, meaning and a deeper sense of connection, according to new research from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ.

The study - published in journal - examined a form of outdoor therapy called ‘ecotherapy’ which includes activities such as walking in woodland, spending time near water, gardening or sitting quietly in nature with a trained therapist. By reviewing studies from around the world, the researchers explored how people described their most meaningful moments during these experiences.

Many people spoke about moments in nature that helped them process pain, let go of the past and rediscover a sense of purpose. Rather than techniques or theories, participants described simple experiences - watching trees grow and decay, feeling the wind on their face or sitting quietly in a forest and feeling part of something larger.

Some described nature as a mirror for their own lives. Seeing natural cycles of growth and renewal helped them accept difficult experiences and feel more present. Others spoke about a strong sense of connection and belonging which brought comfort and made personal problems feel more manageable.

Importantly, these experiences were not linked to religion - people from different backgrounds described spirituality in their own words, focusing on connection, awe and meaning rather than belief.

The study suggests these moments can have lasting effects, helping people accept themselves, release emotional pain and find new direction. At a time of widespread anxiety about the future, the study highlights how connecting with nature may support mental health and foster hope.

Ecotherapy does not replace traditional talking therapies, but the researchers say it may offer something different - space, perspective and a reminder that people are part of a wider living world.

“At a time when many people feel overwhelmed or anxious about the future, these experiences often helped people reconnect with hope and a sense of purpose.”

“This research shows that therapy doesn’t always have to happen in a room,” said co-author Professor Terry Hanley. “For some people, being outdoors creates the space they need to reflect, heal and move forward. As mental health services face growing demand, nature-based approaches could be a valuable part of a wider, more humane response to wellbeing.”

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Gorton and Denton by-election: Reform could benefit from split vote on the left

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:55:05 +0000

A by-election has been set for February 26 in the 99�þþ�Ʒ constituency of Gorton and Denton. This will be a big test for Keir Starmer’s Labour party and a temperature check on the state of multi-party politics in the North. Although Labour won the seat comfortably in 2024, some early polls are could win.

By-elections are awkward beasts and don’t necessarily follow the usual rules. What makes things harder in this case is that Gorton and Denton is a new constituency. It was in 2024 from parts of three different constituencies (Gorton, Denton & Reddish and 99�þþ�Ʒ Withington).

When we try to understand what might happen in a by-election, we rely on the constituency’s past election results as a marker, which is obviously limited to just one election in this case. Gorton and Denton is also “a bit of a Frankenstein’s monster”, .

It has an elongated shape and combines areas with huge socio-demographic differences. Its Tameside wards are predominantly white, with a sizeable working class while its 99�þþ�Ʒ wards have a much higher student and Muslim population.

Labour has everything to lose

Ordinarily, this would be a constituency which Labour should easily win. 99�þþ�Ʒ is a Labour heartland through and through. Its other five constituencies are all held by Labour MPs, it boasts all but a handful of seats on the City Council and Andy Burnham trounced his opponents in the city’s last mayoral elections .

But by-elections are difficult for governments and Keir Starmer’s track record so far is not good. Labour lost a by-election in the Cheshire constituency of in May 2025 to Reform’s Sarah Pochin. Pochin won on a narrow margin of just six votes but had managed to . That makes Labour’s majority of 13,000 in Gorton and Denton look less than secure.

The real danger here is that Labour finds itself in the squeezed middle. It risks losing voters to Reform on the right and the Greens on the left. This is what happened in the in November, which saw Labour pushed back into third place behind Reform and winners Plaid Cymru.

Reform has everything to prove

Nigel Farage’s party has the momentum at the moment. Polls suggest they are outperforming Labour nationally right now and the recent high-profile defections of and have increased the size of their parliamentary group to 8 MPs.

The Reform candidate in Gorton and Denton, former university academic and GB News presenter Matthew Goodwin, may be the most recognisable candidate to voters, but his political views may not go down well throughout the constituency.

His views on the white working class being may resonate in some of 99�þþ�Ʒ’s Tameside wards, but his and what it means to be British will not play well in others, something the Greens in particular are trying to capitalise on.

Pitching the by-election as a “referendum” on Starmer’s leadership is a sensible strategy by Goodwin, especially as a recent YouGov poll showed that think the prime minister is doing a bad job. Reform may struggle to bring together enough voters ready to sign up to all the party stands for, but may be able to borrow the votes from those who nevertheless want Labour out and would benefit from a split on the left.

Victory in Gorton and Denton would not only mean that Reform will equal the SNP in party group size in the Commons, it will be a further pull for disgruntled or panicking Conservative (or Labour) MPs, ahead of the Farage has imposed on MPs thinking about defecting to his party. But there is a sizeable chunk of voters across the UK , and who could vote tactically for Labour just to keep Reform out.

Green performance could be key

The Greens did not perform brilliantly in Gorton and Denton at the 2024 elections, but nationally the party received 7% of the vote and they hold over 800 seats on local councils. Since the election, they have , Zack Polanski, who has been instrumental in raising the Green voice in the media.

Their candidate is Hannah Spencer, a councillor in the region who stood for mayor in 2024 and finished in fifth place, behind Reform.

Polanski is confident that only the Greens can beat Reform in Gorton and Denton. And while that’s a bold claim, his supporters will be buoyed by the in a Derbyshire local by-election last year.

And even if they don’t win, a solid Green performance could be very bad news for Starmer.

, Senior Lecturer in Politics
This article is republished from under a Creative Commons license. Read the .

UK expert in energy and climate governance joins The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 11:04:51 +0000

The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ has appointed Professor Rebecca Willis as Chair of Energy and Climate Governance – a role which bridges the Faculty of Humanities and the Faculty of Science and Engineering through the and the for Climate Change.

A leading academic and thought leader in environment, climate, energy policy and politics, Rebecca will also bring a team of highly regarded researchers and academics to join her at the University. Rebecca leads the Climate Citizens research group, which investigates public engagement and citizenship. She is a co-investigator for the Centre for Joined-Up Sustainability Transitions (JUST), the Energy Demand Research Centre, and a new initiative, PACT (Production and Consumption Transformations) which provides decision support to government departments.

Rebecca Willis has previously been a professor at Lancaster University and is an expert advisor to the Climate Change Committee and Innovate UK’s Net Zero Living Initiative.

Speaking on her appointment, Rebecca said: “The wealth of expertise based here at 99�þþ�Ʒ is highly valued around the world. I am excited to be part of a community working on global challenges with practical outcomes for people, planet and society.

Professor Claire Alexander, Head of the School of Social Sciences added: “We’re delighted to be able to welcome Rebecca and her team to the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ. Rebecca brings significant insight and expertise in terms of applying policy to innovation in the challenging fields of energy and climate governance. She will be working closely with colleagues in the Sustainable Consumption Institute, a collaboration between the School of Social Sciences and Alliance 99�þþ�Ʒ Business School, who are leading the way in terms of the economic and social and policy dimensions of climate justice and environmental sustainability.”

Professor Sarah Cartmell, Head of the School of Engineering said: “Through the Tyndall Centre, Rebecca will strengthen our capacity to link cutting-edge engineering, climate science, social science and governance insights with policy that works in practice. Her expertise will help accelerate the impact of our work, deepen our partnerships and enhance 99�þþ�Ʒ’s role as a leading contributor to the UK and global climate policy landscape.”

Radical measures needed to close arts class gap in Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ, inquiry finds

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Working class creatives are struggling to break into and are leaving the arts, a new inquiry has warned.

, led by Chancellor of The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ Nazir Afzal OBE and Avis Gilmore, former Deputy General Secretary of one of Europe’s biggest trade unions, found that barriers preventing working class talent from succeeding included class-based discrimination, low pay, a lack of connections and exploitative practices.

Less than half of creatives surveyed (44%) said they earned enough to make a living, with many requiring second jobs; 51% of respondents said they had experienced bullying, harassment or bias based on their social class; just 18% of respondents said they saw their lived experiences widely represented in the art form they practice and only 22% said they personally knew anyone working in the arts when they were growing up.

Featuring over 150 hours of interviews with artists ranging from teenage musicians and mid-career arts workers to globally recognised playwrights and BAFTA and Emmy winning screenwriters, the Inquiry found anger, despair and seeds of hope in the voices they heard.

Co-Chair Nazir Afzal OBE, who is also the Chair of the Lowry theatre, said this was an opportunity for Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ to lead the way on a national challenge and build a better sector “where talent is discovered everywhere, nurtured properly, paid fairly and allowed to rise.”

Among the Inquiry’s 21 recommendations are measures to include class as a protected characteristic, the appointment of a Class Champion, a drive to increase apprenticeships, measures to decasualise labour and a co-ordinating body led by the GMCA to marshal resources, spot gaps and join up best practice.

Although the Equality Act does not recognise class as a protected characteristic, Afzal said that 99�þþ�Ʒ should look to unilaterally recognise people from working class backgrounds as having protected characteristics. “As a former prosecutor, I have seen our region do this before,” he said. “When Sophie Lancaster was killed, Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ Police broke new ground by offering people from alternative sub-cultures hate crime protection – and other police forces eventually followed suit. This was the right thing to do and we need to be equally bold. Because we are not going to break down barriers that are crushing creativity until we build an arts sector that treats class as a core inclusion issue.”

But as well as highlighting structural failings, the Inquiry also shines a light on many changemakers who are working hard to widen participation and make a difference. Co-chair Avis Gilmore said she was particularly inspired by institutions like the Co-op stepping up on the back of the report to campaign for more apprenticeships. “I’m thrilled that the Co-op has agreed to lead a campaign to significantly boost creative apprenticeships in our region,” she said.

Claire Costello, Chief People and Inclusion Officer at Co-op explained: “Our Co-op believes everyone, whatever their background, should be able to access opportunities in the arts and creative sector throughout Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ. Apprenticeships can provide a ‘stepping stone’ for future careers, that’s why Co-op is encouraging Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ employers to share unspent apprenticeship levy funds to raise £3 million over 3 years to support 200 new apprenticeships in the arts and creative sector throughout Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ.”

The inquiry’s findings are being launched on January 26^th at an event at the Whitworth Art Gallery at The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ in collaboration with research platform Creative 99�þþ�Ʒ, where the Mayor of Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ, Andy Burnham, is due to speak.

The report can be downloaded .

New Funding to Catalyse Devolved Cultural Policy Making: The Mayoral Authorities Creative Health Network

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Working with the Mayoral Authorities Creative Health Network (MACHN), convened by Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ Combined Authority and Greater London Authority, the network will map policy alignment and challenges across mayoral areas and establish a first of its kind framework for embedding creative health for growth into devolved strategy. The project is titled ‘’.

2026 Co-Lab Policy Network Awards

The programme based at has today announced the results of the 2026 : an ambitious intervention to reorientate place-based cultural policy making in a new context of and the .

The awards mark a pivotal opportunity to deliver devolution and community-led innovation not just as buzzwords, but as practical tools for better place-based policymaking. Together, the four awards mark a timely shift in how we understand innovation, community, and collaboration across the UK.

The programme will fund 4 new to support innovative cross-sector cultural policy networks in devolved nations and regions of the UK.

Co-Lab Policy Network Awards 2026

The Co-Lab Policy Network Awards will create new spaces for deliberation on complex cultural challenges and opportunities—from culture-led regeneration to creative health—building devolved policy infrastructure that will enable better outcomes. The networks will work across sectors to ensure that people in devolved settings become not just participants in policy but the co-creators of it.

The AHRC Creative Communities programme will bring the four networks together to host a devolution and cultural policy summit in December 2026. The programme will publish a Policy Priority Paper from each network award in March 2027. The papers will make new policy recommendations direct to devolved administrations to strengthen delivery and create new capacity for devolved policy exchange within and between the nations and regions of the UK.

About Creative Communities

is a major multi-million pound research programme based at Northumbria University in Newcastle. The investment builds a new evidence base on how cultural devolution can enhance belonging, address regional inequality, deliver devolution, and break down barriers to opportunity for communities in devolved settings across all four nations of the UK.

Cross-faculty team combine art and education to promote diversity and inclusion

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 13:36:17 +0000

Academics from the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ's School of Environment, Education and Development and the School of Medical Sciences are working together to celebrate diversity and inclusion and challenge the orthodoxy of medical art through the .

This eye-catching art exhibition, which launched in October, features fourteen illustrations by seven international artists. It is being displayed in high traffic areas of the Stopford Building, the home of the University’s Medical School.

Medical art refers to the illustrations which are used to illustrate anatomy, medical procedures, surgical techniques and medical devices. It is often dominated by illustrations of White, slim, young adult, non-disabled men. Reframing Stopford aims to challenge this by showing the actual diversity of human bodies, with each piece showing people with intersectional, underrepresented characteristics. The project aims to improve the sense of belonging for students and staff while normalising difference in how we visualise health(care).

A grant from the University’s Institute of Teaching and Learning is now enabling the next phase of development of the Reframing Stopford Project. The cross-Faculty team will be holding creative workshops for students and staff during Spring 2026, experimenting with interdisciplinary, arts-based methods for reflecting on and improving belonging.

The exhibition is free to visit and is open for university staff and students and members of the public to view during usual University hours within the Stopford Building – for locations of the art works.

Study finds strong link between teacher wellbeing and pupil achievement

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 12:34:55 +0000

A new study from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ has found that happier teachers help create happier pupils - and better learning - as ten schools across the UK embrace a groundbreaking approach to wellbeing.

The research, led by Dr Alexandra Hennessey and Dr Sarah MacQuarrie from the 99�þþ�Ʒ Institute of Education, explored how the schools adopted the Well Schools framework - a national movement run by the Youth Sport Trust that puts wellbeing at the heart of education.

The Well Schools project, which began in 2020, has grown into a thriving community of more than 2,000 schools across the UK. This focused on ten schools that took part in a detailed evaluation of how the framework supports wellbeing among both staff and pupils.

Their findings, published in , show that when schools focus on the health, happiness and connectedness of both pupils and staff, classrooms become more positive, productive places to learn and teach.

The report highlights inspiring examples from schools that have introduced everything from daily “active learning” sessions and outdoor lessons to staff recognition schemes, mental health first aid training and after-school wellbeing clubs. These initiatives, tailored to each school’s needs, are helping teachers feel valued and pupils more engaged.

One headteacher told the research team: “If staff are happy and relaxed, the lessons they teach are better. You can feel the buzz in the building - it just feels different.”

Schools involved ranged from small primaries to large secondaries and special schools across England, Scotland and Wales. Despite their differences, all shared a commitment to supporting wellbeing as part of their school culture - and saw real benefits in attendance, focus and morale.

The study found that wellbeing programmes worked best when led by senior school leaders but shaped collaboratively by staff and pupils. Initiatives such as ‘keep, tweak or ditch’ reviews helped teachers cut unnecessary workload, while pupil wellbeing ambassadors and parent workshops extended the benefits beyond the classroom.

“This research highlights the power of schools working as communities - not just institutions that deliver lessons, but places that nurture people,” added Dr MacQuarrie. “The schools we studied created a sense of belonging, where staff and pupils alike feel heard and supported.”

Dr Hennessey concluded: “Wellbeing and learning go hand in hand. Schools that invest in the health and happiness of their staff and students aren’t just improving education - they’re shaping stronger, kinder communities.”

Music Department hosts 'Re:locating the Arts' event with researchers and leading industry partners

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 11:43:24 +0000

On 4th November, the University’s Music Department hosted Re:locating the Arts, a symposium which explored research and current practice on themes of location in the output of arts organisations, co-organised with partner organisation 99�þþ�Ʒ Camerata. With contributions from academia, postgraduate researchers, and professionals working in industry, the event provided an opportunity for a disciplinary diverse range of voices to interrogate current thinking around the role of geographical location in designing and delivering effective arts programmes.

With representatives from theatre, music, orchestral production, and music education, the event began with a roundtable discussion that examined routes to finding a home within a community. Presentations covered a breadth of topics spotlighting current initiatives and relocations in arts organisations; experimental AI in collective practice; festival partnerships; the positioning of the arts within (and by) universities; civic capital in classical music outreach projects; ethics, rights, and regulations in the University of Sheffield’s Access Folk’s participant-led research; and preliminary findings from the University’s research partnership with English National Opera.

This symposium was the third in an ongoing series of Think Tank events, in which themes emerging from a collaborative PhD project are discussed and interrogated by a diverse range of voices and disciplines. The Think Tank series will continue in 2026 with an event focusing on the theme which was considered the most urgent for further interrogation: community.

This event was funded by the North West Consortium Doctoral Training Partnership, part of the Arts and Humanities Research Council. Thanks also to Creative 99�þþ�Ʒ for their generous support.

For more information on the Think Tank series, please email Rebecca.parnell@manchester.ac.uk

Lack of coordination is leaving modern slavery victims and survivors vulnerable, say experts

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 08:30:00 +0000

Researchers at The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ are calling for stronger, coordinated partnerships to tackle modern slavery and human trafficking, warning that gaps between organisations risk leaving victims and survivors without consistent protection and support.

Their appeal comes in a new review commissioned by , which examines how organisations across the city region work together to identify, safeguard and support people affected by modern slavery and human trafficking. The review focuses on partnerships involving local authorities, statutory services, law enforcement, housing providers and voluntary and community sector organisations.

The authors argue that tackling modern slavery depends on robust, long-term collaboration rather than ad hoc arrangements. While organisations across Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ have developed innovative partnership approaches, the review finds that these are not always embedded consistently across the system. Among the review’s key recommendations, the authors are calling for:

- Clearer strategic governance to strengthen modern slavery and human trafficking partnerships at a Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ-wide level.
- More consistent roles and responsibilities across organisations, so victims/survivors do not fall through gaps between services.
- Improved information-sharing and referral pathways, ensuring concerns are acted on quickly and safely.
- Sustainable funding and resources to support partnership working, rather than reliance on short-term arrangements.
- Stronger links between safeguarding, housing, immigration advice and criminal justice responses, reflecting the needs of victims.

The review suggests that where partnerships are well established, outcomes for victims are more likely to be improved. Such embedded collaboration enables earlier identification of exploitation, better safeguarding responses and coordinated support to help individuals recover and rebuild their lives. Strong partnerships also support disruption of criminal activity by improving intelligence-sharing and joint working.

However, the authors highlight challenges which can weaken partnership arrangements including variations in local practice, capacity pressures and funding uncertainty. Frontline professionals reported that without clear structures and shared accountability, collaboration often relies on personal relationships, making it fragile and difficult to sustain.

The researchers also note that victims and survivors of modern slavery often face overlapping vulnerabilities including insecure housing, mental ill-health and immigration insecurity. Without joined-up working across sectors, these complexities can delay support and increase the risk of re-exploitation.

The authors stress that the findings have national relevance due to a relatively cohesive modern slavery partnership approach in Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ. As awareness of modern slavery grows, public bodies across the UK face pressure to demonstrate good quality partnership responses. The review positions Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ as a potential leader, but cautions that this requires investment in governance, coordination and shared learning.

India shows how urban forests can help cool cities – as long as planners understand what nature and people need

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 13:48:24 +0000

For many years, I lived in the Indian city of Chennai where the summer temperatures can reach up to 44°C. With a population of 4.5 million, this coastal city is humid and hot.

Its suburbs are home to 600 Hindu temples and there’s a wildlife reserve called Guindy national park in the heart of the city. of the streets but green parks are few and far between – as is the shade.

As and the rest of , urban forests become more vital. These clusters of trees in parks, gardens, public spaces and along roads and rivers have multiple benefits – from cooling the surrounding air to providing homes for wildlife and creating space for people to enjoy nature. Yet they are often overlooked by city developers.

shows that, in Chennai, there are 26 square miles of tree and other vegetation cover, mainly accounted for by formal green spaces such as Guindy wildlife reserve. On the outskirts of this city, an area of nine square miles of unused land is ideally suited to creating more urban forest. Similarly, there is more potential space for urban forests in other fast urbanising Indian cities like Coimbatore and Tiruchirapalli.

recommend having at least 30% tree cover in urban areas. suggests that cities should allow for nine square metres of urban tree cover per person. Most Indian cities .

Improving urban forests in India has been a challenge for many years due to high land prices, lack of urban planning and little public participation .

Policies introduced by the Indian government to “green” urban areas often equate tree planting with cooling cities and building climate resilience. But it’s not that simple. The success of urban forests depends on factors such as rainfall, understanding interactions with local wildlife and people’s needs.

A warns that in hot, dry cities with limited water availability like Chennai, trees slow the cooling process by water evaporation from leaves and instead contribute to urban heat. Urban heat comes from the reflection and absorption of sunlight by buildings and land surfaces. This is particularly high in smaller Indian cities with populations of 1 to 5 million.

Planting trees with the sole aim of cooling cities could negatively affect wildlife too. Not all birds, bugs and mammals depend on trees for food or shelter. A from researchers in Bengaluru, India, shows that non-native tree species contribute little to bird richness. Meanwhile, urban grasslands and marshlands that are often misclassified as “waste land” support wildlife and help regulate flooding.

In India, cities and villages have open “common” land where people graze their cattle or harvest fuelwood from trees that grow naturally there – tree-planting initiatives in these open land areas can displace poorer communities of people who rely on open lands for grazing and fuel wood collection.

Design with nature

Urban forests can be planned to meet the needs of people, birds and other wildlife.

In 1969, Ian McHarg, the late Scottish landscape architect and urban planner came up with the concept of “design with nature”, where development has a minimal negative effect on the environment. His idea was to preserve existing natural forests by proposing site suitability assessments. By analysing factors such as rivers and streams, soil type, slope and drainage, to identify which areas suit development and which are best preserved for nature.

This approach has advanced with new technology. Now, geographic information systems and satellite imagery help planners integrate environmental data and identify suitable areas for planting new trees or conserving urban forests.

Using the principles of landscape ecology, urban planners can design forest patches in a way that enhances the connectivity of green spaces in a city, rather than uniformly planting trees across all open spaces. By designing these “ecological corridors”, trees along roads or canals, for example, can help link fragmented green spaces.

Planting native tree species suited to dry and drought-prone environments is also crucial, as is assessing the local community’s needs for native fruit-bearing trees that provide food.

Growing urban forests

By 2030, one-third of India’s electricity demand is expected to come from cooling equipment such as . Increasing urban forests could help reduce this .

National-level policies could support urban forest expansion across India. In 2014, the government of India released its urban greenery and flagship urban renewal programmes such as the have tried to increase tree cover. But guidelines often overlook critical considerations like ecological connectivity, native species and local community needs.

In 2020, the government of India launched (a scheme to improve tree cover in cities) with a budget of around US$94 million (£70 million). It aims to create urban forests through active participation of citizens, government agencies and private companies. But there is little evidence that urban forest cover has improved.

Urbanisation reduced tree cover in most Indian cities, and much of it was rather . But by protecting and planting more trees, citizens can live in greener, cooler cities. By shifting urban forest policy from counting trees to designing landscapes, plans that enhance climate resilience, nature conservation and social equity can be put into practice.

, Postgraduate Researcher, Climate Adaptation,
This article is republished from under a Creative Commons license. Read the .

Time spent on gaming and social media not to blame for teen mental health issues

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

A major new study from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ has found little evidence that social media use or video gaming are causing mental health problems in young teenagers, challenging one of the most widespread concerns among parents and teachers today.

The research - published in the - is based on the experiences of more than 25,000 pupils across Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ, and is one of the largest and most detailed studies of its kind. The team followed young people aged 11-14 over three school years as part of the #BeeWell programme, which focuses on understanding and improving young people’s wellbeing.

For several years, headlines have warned that time spent on TikTok, Instagram or gaming platforms could be driving a rise in anxiety and depression among teenagers - but the 99�þþ�Ʒ researchers say their findings paint a much more nuanced picture.

“We know families are worried, but our results do not support the idea that simply spending time on social media or gaming leads to mental health problems - the story is far more complex than that,” said lead author .

The study tracked pupils’ self-reported social media habits, gaming frequency and emotional difficulties over three school years to find out whether technology use genuinely predicted later mental health difficulties. The researchers found no evidence that heavier social media use or more frequent gaming caused increases in symptoms of anxiety or depression over the following year - for boys or girls.

However, the study did uncover other interesting patterns. Girls who gamed more often went on to spend slightly less time on social media the following year, and boys who reported more emotional difficulties were more likely to cut back on gaming in the future - a pattern the researchers suggest could be linked to losing interest in hobbies when feeling low, or parents limiting screen time when they notice their child is struggling.

The research team also explored whether actively chatting on social media or just passively scrolling made a difference, but the overall picture remained the same - technology habits alone did not appear to drive mental health difficulties.

The authors emphasise that this does not mean online experiences are harmless. Hurtful messages, online pressures and extreme content can all have real impacts on wellbeing, but they argue that focusing simply on screen time misses the bigger picture.

DOI:

99�þþ�Ʒ research reveals how global laws can give workers real power

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

A new study in the has revealed that European ‘due diligence’ laws designed to make multinational companies accountable for labour and environmental abuses are beginning to give a voice to some of the world’s most vulnerable workers.

Focusing on South Africa’s wine industry, the research - led by Professor Matthew Alford from The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ’s Alliance 99�þþ�Ʒ Business School, in collaboration with colleagues from the University of Cape Town, University of Wurzburg and TIE Germany - found that farm workers and local unions are using Germany’s Supply Chain Due Diligence Act to push for better working conditions and corporate accountability.

The 2023 law requires German companies to ensure human rights are respected throughout their global supply chains - from vineyards in the Western Cape, to supermarket shelves in Berlin.

The research team discovered that South African trade unions and community organisations have started invoking this legislation to open direct talks with farm owners and European retailers. In one case, the Commercial, Stevedoring, Agricultural and Allied Workers Union (CSAAWU) used the new law to press a local wine farm to address dangerous working conditions.

“Workers were suffering back injuries, lacked clean drinking water and were exposed to pesticides,” said Dr Alford. “By referencing the new German law, local organisers were able to secure regular meetings with management - something that hadn’t happened before - and win concrete improvements.”

These changes included safer equipment, better sanitation and running water for workers’ homes. According to one union organiser interviewed for the study, “For many of the workers, it is the first time ever that they sat at the table and had a discussion with a white person…in the beginning, the workers were a bit shy but once they saw that the management would actually listen to them and even respond to their demands, they got very confident.”

The research also highlights how South African campaigners are using the same laws to challenge European chemical companies which export pesticides to the country that are banned in the EU. The Women on Farms Project has joined forces with German partners, including Oxfam Germany, to explore using the legislation to seek compensation and push for stricter oversight.

The study demonstrates that the laws are opening up new possibilities for workers thousands of miles away from Europe to hold powerful companies to account, but it also shows how their effectiveness depends on awareness, solidarity and cross-border cooperation. It also warns that while Europe’s new regulations hold promise, they are still at an early stage and risk being weakened by political pushback.

Announcing the launch of the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Innovation

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Alliance 99�þþ�Ʒ Business School (AMBS) is delighted to announce the launch of the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Innovation (CTLI), a new hub dedicated to advancing educational excellence and innovation across our community.

Under the leadership of Professor Ali Owrak, the CTLI will serve as a catalyst for transformative education at AMBS, supporting both educators and learners through a wide range of services and opportunities. The Centre’s mission is to foster pedagogical excellence, drive innovation, and champion inclusive partnerships that empower our academic community.

Empowering Educators and Students

The CTLI offers practical support for academic staff seeking to enhance their teaching and student engagement. Services include tailored workshops, one-to-one consultations, and access to resources for course design, assessment strategies, and the effective use of digital tools in the classroom.

Educators can also benefit from interactive workshops, peer observation training, and the pedagogical innovation series. The voluntary peer observation scheme will provide a supportive environment for sharing feedback and learning from colleagues.

Values

At the heart of the CTLI are the values of Excellence, Partnership, Inclusivity, Curiosity, and Trustworthiness. The Centre is committed to developing equitable learning environments, accessible teaching practices, and forward-thinking approaches that support staff and students.

Professor Ali Owrak:

“This marks an exciting new chapter for AMBS. Our vision is to create a collaborative hub where colleagues can explore innovative approaches to teaching, share ideas, and engage in reflective practice. I look forward to welcoming colleagues and working together to shape the future of education at AMBS.”

Professor Ken McPhail:

“At a time of rapid change, it is vital that we continue to innovate in how we teach, learn, and collaborate. The Centre will embody our commitment to educational excellence, inclusivity, and partnership—ensuring that our staff and students are equipped to thrive.”

For more information, visit the CTLI page on the AMBS intranet or contact the team (based on the sixth floor at AMBS, room 6.030) or by emailing CTLI@manchester.ac.uk.

Newsroom University of 99�þþ�Ʒ

Doomscrolling or connecting? Study reveals social media’s complex effect on loneliness

From Salford to Shanghai: how cities around the world are taking back control of housing

New book examines the rise of Africa's 'model nation' - and considers its future

Back-to-basics approach can match or outperform AI in language analysis

University signs Memorandum of Understanding with Tokyo University of the Arts and National Center for Art Research, Japan

Evidence on racism and ethnic inequalities in the pandemic presented to the Covid-19 public inquiry

AI study reveals England’s productivity divide is far more complex than North-South

Generous gift from the niece of Law alumna Nancy Rigby funds extra Lemn Sissay Bursaries

Nanjing Hydropolis: Broadening horizons together

Economics, Football and the Future

Teach Economics is delivered by the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ and co-created by the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ, and the Bank of England.

99�þþ�Ʒ researchers shape major parliamentary report on Women, Peace, and Security

References:

report

Written evidence from Dr Georgia Holmes (Open University) and Dr Laura McLeod (The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ):

Written evidence from Professor Toni Haastrup (The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ:

Oral evidence from Professor Toni Haastrup at the International Development Committee, House of Commons, Tuesday 18 November 2025:

Written evidence from Dr Jamie J Hagen (The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ):

99�þþ�Ʒ researchers launch major UKRI funded project to understand “air inequalities”

99�þþ�Ʒ students mentor local teenagers to build confidence in applying for university

Overstretched councils ‘set up to fail’ in SEND crisis, report reveals

Attorney General makes case for international rules-based order during Harry Street Lecture

Young people’s wellbeing is improving in Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ, major survey finds

You Ought To Know: Simon Industrial Fellow Karen Gabay releases podcast series about Black British music histories

Rt Hon Lord Hermer KC to deliver 38th Annual Harry Street Lecture

Look Back: Unlocking Historical Archives with AI: Opportunities and Challenges

New Music Takes Centre Stage as Sir John Tomlinson Performs with Hallé Youth Orchestra and Choir

Ethnic land rights fail to provide Afro-Colombians with economic security

The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ becomes lead UK-based coordinating institution for UK-China Humanities Alliance

Leading Public Procurement Innovation Expert Rikesh Shah Appointed Simon Industrial & Professional Fellow at University of 99�þþ�Ʒ

Reluctance to rely on China for green technology could slow climate action

Infected Blood Inquiry Memorial goes to University of 99�þþ�Ʒ

Five 99�þþ�Ʒ academics become Fellows of the Academy of Social Sciences

99�þþ�Ʒ conference to re-examine Falklands/Malvinas conflict nearly 45 years later

Why community voices could make or break world’s forest restoration plans

University of 99�þþ�Ʒ to lead accelerated research project tackling violence against women and girls

More information on RISE

Advice and support

‘The Plastic Divide’ - how carrier bag bans impact the poorest communities

Northern researchers and Whitehall unite to tackle the SEND crisis through connected data

The Business Case for Nature: Confronting Biodiversity Risk

MIE Academic Recognised in International Top 50 Voices in Higher Education 2026 List

What the economic impact of Hurricane Katrina means for businesses today

New EU Report on Non-Discrimination by Law experts at the University of 99�þþ�Ʒ

AI could rebalance power between people and the services they use

CreaTech Network 2026: Exploring Creativity & AI in Entertainment, Heritage, and Open Tools

Nature as therapy: research shows how the outdoors can help us to heal

Gorton and Denton by-election: Reform could benefit from split vote on the left

UK expert in energy and climate governance joins The University of 99�þþ�Ʒ

Radical measures needed to close arts class gap in Greater 99�þþ�Ʒ, inquiry finds

New Funding to Catalyse Devolved Cultural Policy Making: The Mayoral Authorities Creative Health Network

2026 Co-Lab Policy Network Awards

Co-Lab Policy Network Awards 2026

About Creative Communities

Cross-faculty team combine art and education to promote diversity and inclusion

Study finds strong link between teacher wellbeing and pupil achievement

Music Department hosts 'Re:locating the Arts' event with researchers and leading industry partners

Lack of coordination is leaving modern slavery victims and survivors vulnerable, say experts

India shows how urban forests can help cool cities – as long as planners understand what nature and people need

Design with nature

Growing urban forests

Time spent on gaming and social media not to blame for teen mental health issues

99�þþ�Ʒ research reveals how global laws can give workers real power

Announcing the launch of the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Innovation