School of Education researchers awarded funding to foster collaboration
Colleagues in the School of Education have been awarded funding to support innovative research projects designed to strengthen collaboration and generate new insights for policy and practice.
The funding comes as the University of Leeds brings together the Faculty of Social Sciences and the Faculty of Environment, supporting ten Social Science led projects. Two successful projects from the School of Education will address pressing educational challenges, with a strong emphasis on impact and interdisciplinary working.
Mapping Lonelygenic Environments: Developing a Loneliness Index for Policy and Practice
One project, Mapping Lonelygenic Environments: Developing a Loneliness Index for Policy and Practice, is led by Dr Kimberly Petersen (School of Education), with Dr Luke Burns (School of Geography) contributing to the research. This project aims to explore how different environments may contribute to feelings of loneliness, bringing together evidence to develop a new “loneliness index.” By identifying and mapping “lonelygenic” environments, the research seeks to provide policymakers and practitioners with practical tools to better understand and address loneliness across communities.
The project will draw on interdisciplinary perspectives and data to examine how factors such as physical space, social infrastructure, and service provision interact to shape experiences of loneliness. Ultimately, the team hopes their findings will inform more targeted interventions and support the design of environments that foster connection and wellbeing.
Exploring Areas for Research in the Department for Education’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme
The second funded project, Exploring Areas for Research in the Department for Education’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme, is led by Dr Peter Hart (School of Education), with collaborators Dr Hannah Ensaff (School of Food Science and Nutrition) and Dr Nathan Fretwell (School of Education). This project focuses on identifying key areas for further research within the HAF programme, which provides support to children and families through holiday-based activities and access to nutritious food.
The research will engage with stakeholders to better understand how the programme is being delivered and experienced, as well as to highlight opportunities for future study. By developing a clearer evidence base, the project aims to support improvements in policy and practice, ensuring that the HAF programme can continue to meet the needs of children and families effectively.
Together, these projects reflect the School of Education’s commitment to producing impactful research that addresses real-world challenges. By fostering collaboration both within and beyond the University, the funding enables researchers to develop innovative ideas and build partnerships that can lead to future larger-scale research initiatives.
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