I am a researcher, policy lead and commentator specialising in inclusive education, disability, and the lived realities of families of disabled children and young people navigating complex support systems. My work brings together academic research, policy analysis and sector experience to examine how structural conditions shape children’s access to education, belonging and support.

Across roles in research, policy and public engagement, I focus on understanding how systems operate in practice, and importantly how evidence, lived experience and rights‑based principles can and should inform more equitable approaches.

Areas of Expertise

Inclusive Education & Disability Policy

I analyse the design and implementation of SEND and education reforms, with particular attention to accountability, system pressures and the translation of policy into everyday experience.

Family Experience & System Navigation

My work examines how parents and carers make decisions, negotiate support, and build trust (or lose it) within complex systems. I explore the relational, emotional and practical dimensions of navigating education and disability services.

Ethnography & Lived Experience Research

I specialise in inclusive research methods and philosophical approaches, and the role of maternal subjectivity in research. My approach foregrounds lived experience as a form of expertise and emphasises ethical, relational and reflexive practice.

Transitions & Adulthood

I have a particular interest in transitions to adulthood and the conditions that enable young people with learning disabilities to build meaningful, connected lives.

Current Roles

  • Policy & Parliamentary Lead, Down’s Syndrome Association
  • Co‑Director, Special Needs Jungle
  • Independent Researcher specialising in inclusion, disability and education
  • Honorary Research Fellow, University of Birmingham
  • Lead member, SEN Policy Research Forum
  • Conference & Events Committee member, British Educational Research Association (BERA)
  • Member, Twinkl SEND Advisory Board
  • Member, British Academy Early Career Network

These roles allow me to work across research, policy and public engagement, contributing to national debates on inclusion, rights and system reform.

Approach & Values

My work is grounded in:

  • Rights‑based thinking
  • Evidence‑informed policy
  • Accessible communication
  • Co‑production and collaboration
  • Ethical, inclusive research practice

I aim to bridge the gap between policy intention and lived reality, ensuring that the experiences of disabled children, young people and families inform the decisions that shape their lives.