BA Psychology (Hons, First), M.S.c (Applied Social Research), PhD (Public Health & Population Science)

I am an occasional lecturer for introductory and advanced statistics on the BPS accredited University of Manchester, Forensic Psychology and Mental Health MSc and Advanced Practice in Forensic Mental Health MSc. 

Chartered Psychologist (CPsychol), and Associate Fellow (AFBPsS) with the British Psychological Society (BPS)

I am a Research Fellow and Chartered Psychologist at the NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration (NIHR GM PSRC) in the University of Manchester. I lead the self-harm research component and the involvement and engagement work for self-harm and suicide prevention in the NIHR GM PSRC and Centre for Mental Health and Safety. Over the next two years, I am also a risk assessment delivery lead for the Culture of Care Programme, which is part of NHS England’s Quality Improvement Programme for inpatient care. Previously, I was an expert content advisor for the NHS England funded programmes to improve community-based services for self-harm and the CQUIN for psychosocial assessments.

Prior to joining the University of Manchester, I conducted extensive mixed-methods research (quantitative, qualitative, co-design, and participatory research methods) on sensitive topics in Ireland, including with patients who have attempted suicide, families and significant others bereaved by suicide, patients with severe and enduring mental health issues, and people with intellectual disabilities. My PhD in Public Health and Population Science from University College Dublin, was a mixed-method investigation of psychological models of suicidal behaviour in psychiatric outpatients. Prior to academic research, I worked in mental health care for people with chronic and enduring psychosis and/or bipolar disorder.

For over a decade, I have managed and delivered large and complex National Institute of Applied Research (NIHR) funded programmes of work on improving hospital services for people who have harmed themselves. My research is focussed on the diagnostic accuracy of risk scales, psychosocial assessment, psychological services, and improving patient safety for people who present to hospital with self-harm. I work closely with patients, clinicians, health services, and third sector partners to translate research evidence to clinical practice.

Selected project sites:  

https://sites.manchester.ac.uk/ms4mh-r/

http://www.bris.ac.uk/population-health-sciences/projects/suicide-prevention/

https://sites.manchester.ac.uk/mash-project/support-for-improving-community-based-care-for-self-harm/

http://www.patientsafety.manchester.ac.uk/

https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/improving-care/nccmh/culture-of-care-programme