What Faculty do you work in?
I work across two faculties: FMHHS and FSE
What is your main area of research?
Hm not so easy to define!
My work spans a variety of topics, including the well-being and empowerment of older adults. My earlier research up to and including my PhD research focused on health promotion, health and dementia literacy of older adults. Whose knowledge counts! (I work p/t in the Centre for Ageing and Dementia Research(CADR).
Also, increasing access to solar energy (particularly India and Africa – and mainly off grid) and involving communities in how this should happen. Considering the impact of renewable energy on communities and the intersection of gender, ageing, health, and climate change (I work with TEA at SUNRISE for the other half of my time).
And the part that connects them: I am particularly interested in ensuring that those intended ‘subjects’/beneficiaries of research are involved in the process. Therefore, I am interested in using creative and participatory approaches and the role of community participation and co-production in research in general.
Why is your research important?
My research on renewable energy (and thus climate change) is critically important as it addresses the urgent need for sustainable solutions in the face of a rapidly changing global environment. The involvement of those likely to be affected is often overlooked in conversations (and certain populations are more vulnerable to negative impacts of climate change than others eg women, children and older adults).
Through the SUNRISE and now TEA at SUNRISE projects, I hope to explore the social and environmental benefits of solar energy deployment (through PV) in rural communities, particularly in India/Africa. My research can highlight the importance of integrating local knowledge and participation in the development of sustainable energy solutions.
The OPTIC (Understanding Older and younger people’s Perspectives and Imaginaries of Climate change) project underscores the significance of including older adults in climate change dialogues. By capturing their perspectives and behaviors related to climate change, the research ensures that the voices of older and younger generations are heard in global sustainability efforts. This is crucial, as their experiences and insights can lead to more inclusive and effective climate strategies that benefit society as a whole.
My research within the ageing context is important because it addresses critical issues related to ageing and dementia eg the environments in which we age impacts considerably on our health and well-being. By focusing on public health/health promotion and dementia literacy, and including older people’s contributions to the debate, I aim to enhance the well-being and empowerment of older adults, ensuring they are better equipped to manage their health and navigate the challenges of ageing
What SDG is your research most closely aligned with?
Mainly SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy: The SUNRISE and TEA at SUNRISE projects, focusing on renewable energy and its impacts on communities and aligns with this goal.
However also relevant and I think most are interconnected
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities: My work on low-carbon homes and community participation in energy transitions supports the development of sustainable living environments.
SDG 13: Climate Action: The OPTIC project engages older adults in conversations about climate change, ensuring their voices are included in climate action efforts.
SDG 3 Good health and well being (work with CADR is often focused on this)
SDG 5 Gender equalities – this is critical to all the above as is SDG 10 Reduced inequalities.
What do you hope to accomplish with your research
Mostly I would like to ensure that there is wider participation of the public in research activities (not just subjects of research) and we do this in a way that is equitable, enjoyable, beneficial and valued by all.
Other aims to:
Empower communities, individuals by involving them in the research process and decision-making related to health, well-being, and sustainability.
Contribute to the development of sustainable living environments and communities that are resilient to climate change.
Ensure that the perspectives of diverse populations are considered in policy-making and practice.
Is there a cross-disciplinary element to your research? If so, who else at the University is involved?
Yes, my research is highly cross-disciplinary. I collaborate with colleagues from various disciplines, including environmental science, social sciences, and engineering. Within Swansea University, I work closely with teams across all Faculties (the Centre for Ageing and Dementia Research (CADR), Engineering Tea at SUNRISE, FHHS -just about to embark on a small MASI funded project led by David Pickernell (How can innovations in products, processes, and behaviors strengthen healthcare supply chain resilience and reduce risks?)
The multidisciplinary approach allows us to address complex issues from multiple perspectives, leading to more holistic and impactful research outcomes.
Are there any external collaborators involved?
Yes, there are several external collaborators involved in my research. For example, the SUNRISE project involves international partners, including colleagues in India and the CoIs on my small ESRC IAA award are from Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai and Cambridge UK (where we examine the impact of SUNRISE renewable energy installation). TEA AT SUNRISE includes delivery partners from Africa and the recently set up network includes members from over 10 countriesAdditionally, the OPTIC project involves collaboration with stakeholders and publics to understand and disseminate older people's perspectives on climate change.
What is next for your research?
Busy with TEA at SUNRISE and After SUNRISE – beyond that always difficult to tell – as not on a permanent contract so somewhat unpredictable!