Biography
Work Biography
I am an Associate Professor of Social Work, taking both the professional and strategic lead for the social work specialism at Â鶹ÉçÇø. I bring extensive experience from senior roles in both frontline social work practice and higher education, spanning over four decades. My leadership and expertise have consistently shaped policy, education, and practice at national and international levels.
Throughout my career, I have held a number of high-level strategic posts, including Associate Professor of Internationalisation, Head of Department for Social Sciences & Social Work, and Head of Quality. My professional standing is further evidenced by appointments to three government and regulatory bodies: the Department for Education & Skills (DfES), the General Social Care Council (GSCC), and the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) Tribunal Service. Across these roles, I have contributed to the development, regulation, and implementation of safeguarding policies and professional standards that remain central to UK-wide social work and education frameworks today.
With over 20 years as a practising social worker and a further 20 years in academia, I have established a strong national and international reputation in social work practice, education, and policy. My work has influenced public understanding, shaped national legislation, and directly impacted professional standards across the UK.
My career has been recognised through multiple awards, including two National Training Awards for CPD programmes delivered across 26 Local Authorities, and two Vice-Chancellor’s Awards for ‘Exceptional Contribution to the Student Experience’ and ‘Global Engagement’. These accolades highlight the tangible impact of my work across institutions, sectors, and geographies.
As a keynote speaker, visiting professor, and conference organiser, I have positioned ENU as a global leader in social work education. Since joining ENU in 2021, I have presented at eight international conferences, led plenary sessions, and enabled staff and students to contribute to global forums. My leadership of the International Social Work Network (SocNET 98') and active engagement with 25 European universities has driven internationalisation efforts, academic mobility, and collaborative project development.
My influence also extends to national boards, journal editorial panels, and public policy arenas. I am a board member for Practice: Social Work in Action and KONTAKT, a grant reviewer for the National Centre for Alzheimer’s, and a recognised expert in Serious Case Reviews, where my insight has informed national safeguarding policy. High-profile engagements—including expert consultancy for the BBC series Shetland and invited testimony at the House of Commons Select Committee—highlight my ability to translate academic expertise into meaningful societal impact.
Most recently, I was elected by the Scottish Heads of Social Work (endorsed by the Professors of Social Work) to represent all Higher Education Institutions on the new National Heads of Social Work Education Committee. With direct links to the Chief Social Work Officer, COSLA, and the Scottish Government, I am strategically positioned to influence national social work education and policy at the highest level, reinforcing ENU’s visibility and leadership in the sector.