Newsroom University of Manchester

Life through a lens - how photos unlock the stories behind places

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 12:30:09 +0100

Research from �� has uncovered how something as simple as walking and taking photographs can reveal powerful stories about people’s lives and the places they live.

Published in The Royal Geographical Society’s , the study worked with older residents of Prestwich, Greater �� to explore the memories, emotions and experiences tied to local spaces - from leafy parks to busy high streets. Participants took the researcher with them on journeys, snapping photos along the way and sharing what these places meant to them.

For 67-year-old Paul, a walk through Prestwich Clough brought back vivid childhood memories of exploring ponds, catching tadpoles, and playing games with friends. For others, like Ben and Reg, a trip up a church tower became an opportunity to share stories about community, heritage, and family life. And for George, a wheelchair user, taking the tram into �� highlighted the challenges of accessibility - but also the importance of places like the Central Library café, where he felt welcome and connected.

Dr Amy Barron, from the Department of Geography, led the project. She said: “Places are never just bricks, paths or buildings. They hold memories, feelings, and connections that shape who we are. By walking with people, listening to their stories, and looking at the photos they chose to take, we were able to see how deeply personal and emotional these everyday spaces really are.”

The project was carried out at a time when Greater �� was first starting to work towards becoming the world’s first ‘age-friendly’ city-region, a global initiative designed to make cities better places to grow old. The research highlights why it’s important to listen to the voices of older people - not just through surveys and statistics, but by taking the time to share in their experiences.

The findings show that places carry people’s histories with them. Memories of childhood, family traditions, and community connections live on in familiar landscapes. At the same time, small everyday routines — like visiting a library, volunteering at a church, or walking the dog — show how places help create a sense of belonging and identity.

The research also points to wider benefits. City planners, museums, and community groups could use similar methods to understand how people use local spaces, collect living memories, and bring different voices into conversations about the future of towns and cities.

Focusing on the voices of older people highlights the importance of everyday places and the rich, personal stories they hold. It shows that the places we pass through each day - the park, the market, the church, the tram stop - are much more than just backdrops. They are living parts of our personal and collective stories.

What you study in school can shape your politics, study finds

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 10:30:46 +0100

Groundbreaking new research led by �� has uncovered a significant and lasting link between the subjects young people study in secondary school and their political preferences.

The study, led by Dr Nicole Martin from �� alongside Dr Ralph Scott from the University of Bristol and Dr Roland Kappe from University College London, uniquely tracked thousands of English students from adolescence into adulthood.

It revealed that studying arts and humanities subjects such as History, Art and Drama during their GCSEs makes students more likely to support socially liberal and economically left-wing parties like the Green Party or Liberal Democrats.

In contrast, students who studied Business Studies or Economics at GCSE level showed increased support for economically right-wing parties like the Conservative Party. Technical subjects also influenced views, leading to greater support for socially conservative and economically right-wing parties.

Crucially, these relationships between subjects and political support were found to persist into adulthood.

Published in the journal , the research marks the first time such effects have been observed within compulsory secondary schooling, moving beyond studies that traditionally focus on university education.

By combining English administrative school records with a unique panel of adolescents, the study provides compelling evidence on the importance of secondary school subjects for political socialisation during the 'impressionable years' of adolescence.

“Our research demonstrates that education’s influence on our political beliefs is far more nuanced than simply the level of education attained,” said Dr Martin. “The specific subjects that young people take in school - particularly at GCSE - plays a profound role in shaping their political compass. This might be because of the content, or because of different peer groups or role models.”

Cheaper, fresher, greener - new research promises lower prices for local food

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:12:38 +0100

A team of researchers has found new ways to make it cheaper - and greener - for small food producers to get their goods to customers.

The study, led by Alliance �� Business School’s Dr Arijit De and published in the journal, looked at how local food hubs can work more efficiently. These hubs act like a central marketplace: farmers and small food businesses bring products to one place, where they are packed and delivered to shoppers.

While this sounds simple, the reality can be costly and environmentally damaging. Many producers operate alone, driving long distances to drop off small loads. This creates more van journeys, higher costs, and - despite being “local” - surprisingly high carbon emissions. Rural farms and food businesses face especially high distribution costs, as longer travel distances and fewer delivery points make transport less efficient.

The research team worked with Food and Drink North East (FADNE), a community business in Newcastle, which launched the ‘Local Heroes’ hub during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns. The hub helped over 150 producers - from dairy farmers to craft brewers - sell directly to households.

Using real delivery data, the researchers created a model to test scenarios. The results show that if producers share transport more effectively, they can cut delivery costs and fuel use. Even better, replacing diesel vans with electric vehicles could reduce costs by nearly one-third and slash carbon emissions by up to 70%.

The findings also matter for families struggling with the cost of living. Delivery costs can push up food prices. By making transport more efficient, hubs like Local Heroes can keep food affordable while still supporting small businesses. This is especially important in rural regions, where high logistics costs have long limited farmer incomes and consumer access.

“The North East has some of England’s highest child poverty levels, but also a growing demand for healthy, locally produced food,” said co-author Barbara Tocco from Newcastle University. “This work shows how smarter logistics can help more people access it without harming the environment.”

The study also highlights resilience. During Covid-19, when supermarkets ran low on supplies, food hubs were vital to connect farmers directly with households. Strengthening those networks will help communities to withstand future shocks from pandemics, rising fuel prices or climate change.

The researchers hope their model can be used by food hubs across the UK and Europe. With farming under pressure from economic and environmental challenges, small changes in delivery routes and vehicle choices could make a big difference.

The findings build on the team’s previous research which has been shared on the EU’s business advice platform , as well as being raised in UK Parliament questions about and .

New research sheds light on Britain’s forgotten role in the French Resistance

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 10:25:56 +0100

New research by Dr Laure Humbert from �� and Dr Raphaële Balu from Sorbonne University has revealed how Britain’s vital contribution to the French Resistance during the Second World War was largely forgotten in France - and why this silence lasted for decades.

The study, published in French journal as part of a special issue on ‘Les invisibles de la Résistance’ [the invisibles in the Resistance] edited by Professor Claire Andrieu, highlights the many ways British men and women supported the Resistance - from sending secret agents behind enemy lines to working side by side with Free French forces in mobile hospitals - and explores why this contribution was not officially celebrated in the aftermath of war.

One striking example is the story of the Hadfield Spears hospital, a Franco-British medical unit set up in 1940 by American philanthropist Mary Spears and Lady Hadfield, with support from the Free French in London. Staffed by British nurses and doctors alongside Free French medics, the hospital followed the troops across campaigns in the Middle East, North Africa, Italy, and finally France. It treated thousands of wounded soldiers and became a symbol of cooperation between the two nations. But in 1945, just after the victory parades in Paris, the unit was suddenly dissolved. Official recognition never came, and its story slipped into obscurity.

Another case examined is that of the Special Operations Executive (SOE), the British service that parachuted around 1,800 agents into occupied France. These men and women risked their lives to arm and advise Resistance fighters, often building strong friendships with local groups. But as liberation came, Charles de Gaulle, keen to re-establish France’s independence, dismissed several of these agents in person. Their contribution, once celebrated in Britain, was gradually erased from French accounts of the Resistance.

The study shows that this sudden “falling-out” in 1944-45 was not only about personalities, but also about sovereignty and post-war politics - the result was a long-lasting “invisibility” of Britain’s role in French collective memory.

While in the UK the exploits of SOE agents became the stuff of books, films and television dramas, and while the Hadfield Spears unit appeared at the BBC, in France these same stories were largely absent from official commemorations.

The Lost Decade: why Australia is playing climate catch-up

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 10:12:21 +0100

For ten long years, Australia earned an unenviable reputation as one of the world’s climate change ‘laggards’. From 2013 to 2022 its governments weakened environmental rules, cut renewable energy funding and fought against international climate agreements - climate scientists and activists dubbed it the nation’s ‘Lost Decade’.

Now, new research by a group of experts from �� and the University of Melbourne has revealed how Australia went from that era of inaction to passing its most ambitious climate law in a generation - and why its transformation still hangs in the balance.

The study published in the tracks how the election of a centre-left government in 2022 sparked big changes. Within months, Australia passed the Climate Change Act, promising to cut emissions by 43% by 2030 compared with 2005 levels and reach net zero by 2050.

The government launched plans for 82% renewable electricity by 2030, and pitched Australia as a ‘Renewable Energy Superpower’ thanks to its rich reserves of minerals like lithium and cobalt, which are essential for electric cars and solar panels.

But the researchers warn that this transformation is far from complete. Australia, they argue, is stuck on a ‘dual track’: expanding green energy on one hand, while doubling down on fossil fuel exports on the other. In fact, in 2024 the government unveiled a new ‘Future Gas Strategy’, signalling plans to keep supplying global gas markets well past 2050.

The research highlights that rather than setting bold new directions, the country copies climate policies from elsewhere (like the UK and New Zealand) and has to accept the prices set by bigger economies for its critical minerals. By waiting so long to act, Australia missed the chance to shape the global market.

It also demonstrates the human cost - experts interviewed described how climate scientists and renewable energy experts left the country in frustration, a ‘brain drain’ that left Australia short of skilled workers just as the green economy began to boom.

“Australia’s story is a warning for all countries, especially those heavily tied to fossil fuels,” said co-author Dr Paul Tobin. “Delay now means paying the price later, not only in rising climate impacts like bushfires and floods, but also in lost opportunities for jobs, innovation and global influence.”

“If countries want to shape the future rather than scramble to catch up, they need to act boldly and early. Climate change isn’t just an environmental issue - it’s about economic competitiveness, national identity and fairness to the next generation.”

Professor Todd Hartman part of team awarded Wellcome Discovery Award for research on mental health and administrative justice

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 13:55:21 +0100

Professor Todd Hartman (Social Statistics) part of interdisciplinary team awarded Wellcome Discovery Award for research on mental health and administrative justice.

Primary health services are the first point of contact for those seeking support for common mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression. These services form an essential part of the response to the UK’s mental health crisis.

Engagement with those accessing and navigating primary care pathways for common mental health problems has highlighted that accessing and engaging with support frequently involves struggling with complex and burdensome bureaucratic processes at an already difficult time. These experiences can leave people with a profound sense of unjust treatment that continues throughout their journey through the system.

Research across different disciplines has suggested that perceptions of ‘just’ treatment can also significantly impact treatment outcomes by affecting engagement with services, deterring individuals from seeking support in the future, and exacerbating existing inequalities within the system.

A research programme, led by Professor Joe Tomlinson and funded by a £2.5 million Discovery Award, will pioneer the application of the theory of ‘bureaucratic justice’ in primary mental health services. By deploying an innovative combination of a longitudinal quantitative and qualitative study with participatory storytelling methods, the programme will develop a new understanding of the nature and relevance of just treatment in the context of how people interact with frontline administrative processes in primary care mental health services.

The programme will also build an interdisciplinary community of researchers, while providing a platform to embed lived experiences of seeking mental health support into research practices in innovative and engaging ways.

The programme formally launches in January 2026 and will run for six years. Alongside Professor Joe Tomlinson, The Dickson Poon School of Law and King’s College London, the programme will benefit from the expertise of co-investigator Head of the and Deputy Director of the at ��. Co-investigators are also based at the University of York (including Dr Jed Meers, Dr Simona Manni, Dr Annie Irvine, Dr Aisling Ryan, and Professor Lina Gega).

Research shows cities must do more to support older residents

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 12:17:13 +0100

To mark the upcoming , a new study from �� is calling for cities to do more to support older people who want to stay in their own homes and communities as they age.

The research published in the looks at the idea of ‘ageing in place’ - the policy focus on enabling older adults to live well in their own home and neighbourhood of choice for as long as they wish. While this approach is often seen as positive, the study highlights that many urban areas do not provide the necessary supports to make this a reality.

According to the research team, the pressures of rising inequality, cuts to public services, and the privatisation of spaces in cities mean many older people struggle to access the support they need. Poorer neighbourhoods in particular face declining facilities such as libraries, community centres and affordable housing – resources that are crucial for wellbeing in later life.

“Most people want to stay in their homes as they grow older, but this is only possible if the communities around them are supportive,” said lead author Dr Tine Buffel. “At the moment, too many older residents are left isolated or feel invisible in their own neighbourhoods. We need new ways of organising community life so people can rely on each other, rather than just on families and/or overstretched services.”

The study looked at innovative examples from around the world that could help tackle the problem. These include:

The Village model – neighbourhood organisations run by older people themselves, pooling resources to provide services like transport, home repairs and social activities.
Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities – areas where large numbers of older people already live, supported by tailored health and community services.
Cohousing – intentionally created communities where residents share spaces and provide mutual support.
Compassionate Communities – grassroots networks that help people facing illness, end of life or bereavement.

Each model has benefits, from reducing hospital admissions to strengthening social ties, but also face challenges such as funding pressures and a tendency to leave out more disadvantaged groups.

The researchers argue that the next step is to think about ageing in place as a collaborative venture – something built on collective action, shared resources and planning with the direct involvement of older people themselves. They also call for urban planning to be less ageist, pointing out that too many urban regeneration projects prioritise young professionals over older residents.

The study concludes that ageing in place can only succeed if communities, councils, charities and older residents work together. Without this, many people risk not being able to live independently, or being “stuck in place” in unsuitable housing and unsupported communities.

Mission Research: �� awarded one of the UKRI Community Innovation Practitioner Awards

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 14:16:35 +0100

Ruth Flanagan will work with Cartwheel Arts as Community Innovation Practitioner (CIP) during 2025-2026.

The , funded by the UKRI Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and led by Northumbria University, has extended its signature award, the , for a new 2025-26 cohort. This represents an investment of nearly £500,000 to catalyse place-based innovation across all 4 nations of the UK research ecosystem.

The AHRC Creative Communities programme examines the role of culture and devolution in unlocking cross sector co-creation and place-based innovation across all 4 nations of the UK.

AHRC Executive Chair Professor Christopher Smith said:

Ruth Flanagan is an artist who has been working with Creative �� partner organisation, Cartwheel Arts, with diverse communities in Rochdale to deliver craft and heritage projects. During 2025-2026, Ruth will work as Community Innovation Practitioner (CIP), along with University of Manchester researchers through Creative �� and the School of Arts Languages and Cultures to introduce a research framework to her work finding connections through diverse communities through craft traditions.

is one of six new UK CIPs across a spectrum of projects that represent the rich cross-sector community research and inclusive innovation that is catalysing growth.

In partnership with Cartwheel Arts and national organisation Heritage Crafts UK, and working closely with Greater �� Combined Authority, this project draws on the history and legacy of Manchester’s Co-Operative movement by using crafting methods to promote resilience, belonging and cultural engagement in diverse communities in Rochdale (which is Greater ��’s Town of Culture 2025).

Ruth Flanagan said of the award:

About the Community Innovation Practitioner Awards

This is a major investment in place-based innovation and cross-sector research partnerships across the devolved nations and regions of the UK. Each CIP will work in their devolved policy context to explore how co-created cultural innovation can enhance belonging, address regional inequality, deliver devolution and break down barriers to opportunity.

The CIPs will generate vital new knowledge about co-creation and the unique role played by their communities and partnerships in growth through new research, development and innovation (RD&I).

Each CIP will produce a , and an episode of the to share learning from their community and cultural partners. Together, the CIPs will form a Community of Practice network with the aim of fostering new relationships and sharing innovative practice.

Funding has been awarded to six new CIPs across a spectrum of projects that represent the rich cross-sector community research and inclusive innovation that is catalysing growth in all 4 nations of the UK.

About Creative Communities

is a £3.9m major research programme based at Northumbria University in Newcastle. It builds a new evidence base on how cultural devolution can enhance belonging, address regional inequality, deliver devolution and break down barriers to opportunity for communities in devolved settings across all four nations of the UK.

For more information you can also visit the .

Stitching at the End of the World: Rethinking Privacy Through Textile Practice at �� Museum

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 11:13:31 +0100

Written by Lydia Donohue with photographs by Tom Longstaff.

On the top floor of Manchester Museum, participants gathered for “Stitching at the End of the World,” a workshop that paired hands-on textile making with discussion of privacy, surveillance, and autonomy in the digital era.

Led by , a PhD researcher in Social Anthropology, and part of the open-source artwork Kill Your iPhone, the session guided attendees in creating phone pouches from Electromagnetic Shielding fabric. This material blocks the device from communicating with the technological infrastructure. Once inside, they are cut off from the mobile network and effectively become a “dead phone.”

Supported by funding and , the workshop was not only about making a practical tool. As participants stitched their pouches, conversations unfolded about cybersecurity, personal autonomy, and the role of ‘smart textiles’ in shaping everyday life. Sewing became a way to reflect on how digital systems structure our choices, and how creative practices can open space to challenge them.

The session bridged STEM research, future-fabric technologies, anthropology, and creative education, showing how textiles can serve both as functional objects and as critical methods of inquiry. By linking material practice to large-scale debates on surveillance and digital dependency, the workshop demonstrated how interdisciplinary and material methods can address pressing social questions surrounding civil liberty and privacy.

Textiles, with their slowness and tactile qualities, stand in sharp contrast to the invisible speed of digital infrastructures. Making a shielding pouch thus became more than a technical exercise: it was an invitation for participants to imagine how they might reclaim agency in a hyper-connected world, offering them the choice to connect or to disconnect.

Through its blend of craft, theory, and public dialogue, “Stitching at the End of the World” offered a fresh perspective on how we can reimagine autonomy in an increasingly connected world.

Data privacy push sparks tech surge in US banks

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 10:54:20 +0100

A new study led by Dr Sarah Zhang from Alliance �� Business School has uncovered how small banks in the United States are reacting to growing concerns about data privacy.

The research published in the shows that when US states announce plans for stronger data privacy laws, small banks quickly boost their investment in IT before such laws are even passed. On average, banks increased their IT spending by more than a third in the year following such announcements.

The study examined 7,251 small banks across the US, using data from 2010 to 2021. The findings reveal that banks are not simply preparing to follow new rules but are also responding to market pressure - in other words, competition from rival banks and the fear of losing customers drive much of the investment.

This shows that banks are aware of how seriously the public takes data security. High-profile cases of data breaches in recent years have damaged trust in financial institutions. When banks move quickly to strengthen their systems, it reflects growing pressure to protect personal information such as names, addresses and account details.

This research also highlights that new rules can change behaviour even before they officially come into force. The effect is particularly strong for smaller banks, which face greater challenges because they have fewer resources. While big banks often already have advanced IT systems in place, small banks are forced to catch up quickly, which can be costly.

Interestingly, the study found that although banks are spending more on IT, the benefits are not immediate. Profitability often dips because of the high costs, and there is little clear evidence that the extra spending reduces cyberattacks in the short term. However, the long-term hope is that stronger systems will reduce risks and build trust with customers.

Although the study focuses on the United States, its findings are highly relevant worldwide. In Europe, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has already transformed how businesses handle personal data. The study suggests that even the early discussion of new laws can spark major changes in how companies prepare for the future.

As more countries and regions introduce stronger privacy protections, the study raises questions about how smaller financial institutions will cope with the cost of compliance. While consumers may benefit from improved protection, the financial burden may be felt most by smaller banks, which could in turn affect the services they provide.

The research provides valuable insights for policymakers, banks and the public. It underlines that the debate over data privacy is not only about regulation but also about competition, trust and the future of banking in the digital age.

Study finds no extra benefit from children’s mental health programme

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 09:30:00 +0100

A new study from �� has found that a well-known mental health intervention for children may be no more effective than the usual social and emotional learning (SEL) programmes already being taught in primary schools.

The research, published in the , was led by experts from the �� Institute of Education working alongside colleagues from the University of Dundee and Necmettin Erbakan University in Turkey. After looking at whether Passport: Skills for Life helped to improve children's mental wellbeing, they found that it appeared to make little difference compared to what schools were already doing.

Passport is designed to help children aged 9 to 11 manage their emotions, cope with stress and build good relationships. It includes 18 weekly lessons covering topics like feelings, friendships and handling change.

Teachers who were trained in the programme delivered these lessons in class - the idea was that by helping children to build strong emotional and social skills, it could prevent mental health problems like anxiety and depression.

The study involved over 2,400 children from 62 primary schools across Greater �� and nearby areas. Some schools used the Passport programme, while others continued with their usual teaching.

After closely studying the results, researchers found that the Passport lessons didn’t appear to lead to better outcomes for the children. There was no significant improvement in mental health symptoms, such as internalising symptoms, or in other areas like emotional regulation, wellbeing or bullying. This means that children who took part in the programme were no better off than those who followed the normal school curriculum.

The research team looked into several possible reasons for the lack of results. One idea was that the programme wasn’t different enough from what schools were already doing - many schools in the study were already using other SEL programmes. In fact, almost two-thirds of teachers said they used some kind of SEL teaching before the study even started, and about 60% of the Passport content overlapped with these existing lessons.

“The quality of universal SEL education has significantly improved over the last two decades, meaning new programmes face a higher bar for showing additional impact. This highlights the excellent work already being done in schools to nurture children's mental health," Neil added.

The research also raises questions about whether programmes developed in one country - like Passport, which was originally from Canada - will work the same way in another. Cultural differences may affect how well these interventions work.

The researchers plan to keep studying the data, and looking into whether the programme has any long-term benefits, works better for certain groups of children or is good value for money.

Eviction is a ‘deliberate feature’ of the housing system, says new book

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0100

A new book by Dr Jessica Field from �� has revealed that eviction is a ‘deliberate and enduring feature’ of Britain’s housing system, rather than simply being a consequence of a housing crisis.

Eviction: A Social History of Rent, published by Verso, is a detailed look at the complex history of rented housing in the UK, tracing policy evolutions from the late 19^th century to the contemporary private rental sector. It examines how rental policies and housing structures have historically positioned low-income tenants as vulnerable to displacement, showing that the threat of eviction has long been woven into the design of the housing market rather than arising from occasional crises.

The book offers a compelling and often unsettling look at the persistent reality of housing insecurity for low-income tenants in Britain over the past century and a half. It argues that eviction is not an aberration, but is fundamentally ingrained in the nation's housing system, often masked as progress.

Dr Field uses her own family’s story as the heart of the book, focusing on a housing estate in south Leeds nicknamed “Cardboard City.” This neighbourhood, which was built in the 1950s by the National Coal Board (NCB) to house miners and their families, became home to generations of working-class tenants. It was a close-knit community where neighbours supported one another, socialised as close friends, and raised families.

Eviction charts the path of these homes from state-owned worker housing to privately rented properties, detailing cycles of neglect and financialisation. Despite promises of security, NCB properties - like many council houses - suffered from inadequate maintenance, and were eventually sold off to private speculators for a pittance.

In 2017, the property company that now owned the estate announced plans to demolish the homes and build ‘executive’ houses in their place. This would mean evicting seventy households, many of whom had lived there for at least a decade, including Dr Field’s parents. The residents formed a campaign group, Save Our Homes LS26, and fought hard to save their homes - but despite their efforts, most were eventually forced to leave. Dr Field’s parents were evicted in 2022.

In the book, Dr Field shares how the fight to stop the eviction affected her mother’s health and well-being, and how the loss of their home shattered a once-thriving community. She situates those personal experiences in the long history of renting in Britain, showing how renters have always had fewer rights than homeowners and how evictions have often been treated as inevitable or even for the good of the tenants.

Through a mix of personal storytelling and historical research, Eviction challenges the idea that private renting has ever been a secure or fair option for families – even during the apparent post-war golden era of council house expansion. It also highlights the importance of community, neighbourly support and tenant-led activism and celebrates the achievements of many women-led activist movements over the decades.

"My parents fought for five years to save their community from a mass eviction. They lost, but their story reveals a brutal truth about Britain's housing system. For working-class families, the housing crisis isn't new – it's the enduring status quo”, says Dr Field.

Eviction: A Social History of Rent is available now from .

New research finds that ‘Levelling Up’ left many southern areas behind

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 13:18:44 +0100

Communities in the South of England were systematically underfunded in the government’s flagship ‘Levelling Up’ programme, according to new research using a Community Resilience Index (CRI) developed at ��.

The study, published in , analysed how £8.64 billion of Levelling Up funding was distributed across 307 local authority districts in England. Using a new Community Resilience Index (CRI) to measure need, researchers discovered that while many northern and coastal areas received more than their “fair share” of investment, the South of England was consistently underfunded.

The findings challenge the dominant narrative of a simple “north-south divide” and reveal that southern communities - particularly in inland areas - were frequently left behind in funding allocations.

Only 36.2% of local authorities received support proportionate to their need - the research shows that 30% of Levelling Up funding would have needed to be reallocated to ensure an equitable distribution across the country

“Levelling Up was designed to help all places build on their strengths and reach their potential - yet our resilience-based analysis shows that many southern communities were overlooked in funding allocations,” said Dr Christine Camacho, lead author of the study. “These areas face significant challenges but did not receive the support needed to strengthen their resilience.”

Among the starkest cases was Havant, in the South East, which received just £12.45 per person in Levelling Up support - 94% less than the £200 per person it would have received under a fair allocation model.

By contrast, several northern districts received far more than their modelled “fair share”. Redcar and Cleveland, for example, secured £469.70 per person - more than double its needs-based allocation. The researchers argue that this unevenness highlights deep flaws in the competitive, ministerial-driven allocation process.

The study emphasises that competitive bidding and ministerial discretion meant funding often flowed to areas with stronger institutional capacity, rather than those with the greatest social and economic need.

The researchers argue that without systematic, needs-driven allocation of investment, future regional policies risk repeating the mistakes of Levelling Up - leaving vulnerable communities in both the North and the South behind.

The authors stress that as the new Labour government moves beyond the Levelling Up brand, future place-based policies must adopt transparent, needs-based criteria. The Community Resilience Index, they argue, offers a robust tool for ensuring resources go where they are most needed.

Black photography and activism

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 15:30:27 +0100

‘Visualising the Histories of Black Britain’ at The Photographers Gallery on 19 September 2025 will bring together artists, activists and scholars to explore how photography can illuminate the rich and complex histories of Black and Asian communities in 1970s and 1980s Britain.

(lecturer of modern and contemporary British Art) will introduce how Mumtaz Karimjee engaged with the politics of the photographic image while documenting queer Black feminist activism.

In 1987, the photographer Mumtaz Karimjee published an article titled ‘Black and Asian: Definitions and Redefinitions’ in the British South-Asian grassroots publication, Mukti. Correia will discuss how Karimjee considered the terms ‘Black’ and ‘Asian’ in relation to her own identity and the ways in which these terms were used inclusively and exclusively according to different contexts and settings.

Correia will introduce how Karimjee utilised photography as a mode of social activism while moving between South-Asian and politically-Black contexts to express her social and political concerns and solidarities. Correia will highlight Karimjee’s groundbreaking work picturing anti-racist campaigns for social justice and queer Black activism amidst Section 28 and the AIDS crisis.

Expect thought-provoking discussions, critical perspectives, and inspiring insights into visual culture, identity, and representation.

Visualising the Histories of Black Britain

The Photographers’ Gallery, 16–18 Ramillies Street, London W1F 7LW
Thursday, 19 September 2025
12pm – 5pm
.

From pubs to plates: �� research shows Britain’s social life is shifting

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 15:13:07 +0100

A new study by experts from �� has revealed a major shift in Britain’s social life, as the number of bars and pubs has dropped sharply in recent years while restaurants have expanded.

The research, published in , examined more than 1100 neighbourhoods across Greater �� and Nottingham between 2002 and 2019. The team found that bar numbers fell by around 35%, while restaurant numbers grew by a similar percentage over the same period

This trend is part of a nationwide pattern. Across the UK, thousands of pubs have closed their doors in the past two decades, with closures accelerating in recent years as rising costs, changing habits and the Covid-19 pandemic hit the industry hard.

The researchers say the shift is driven by younger generations who are drinking less alcohol and increasingly socialising around food rather than drink. “Our findings show a clear generational move away from alcohol-centred venues,” said lead author Jonathan Wood. “Bars are disappearing from many neighbourhoods, while restaurants are spreading into new areas.”

While bars and pubs once dominated high streets and local centres, the study found that many have vanished altogether from large parts of both �� and Nottingham. In 2002, around 43% of Manchester neighbourhoods and 47% of Nottingham neighbourhoods had no bars at all. By 2019, the number of “bar deserts” had increased nearly twenty-fold.

In contrast, restaurants – once concentrated almost entirely in city centres – have grown and spread into suburbs and residential areas. The study shows the likelihood of a neighbourhood having no restaurants fell by at least five-fold during the period

The research also reveals how geography plays a role. Venues are increasingly clustering in central, well-connected areas, often close to retail hubs and good public transport. ��’s nightlife, for example, has become more centralised, with popular spots like the Northern Quarter and Deansgate thriving while local bars in outlying neighbourhoods struggle to survive.

By contrast, restaurants have been able to expand further afield, offering more choice in suburban areas. The team suggests this reflects the way people now prefer to spend their leisure time, with eating out seen as a more inclusive and family-friendly activity than drinking.

The decline of pubs and bars has long worried campaigners who see them as vital community spaces. The new research underlines how closures are reshaping neighbourhoods – especially in deprived areas, where pubs once offered affordable social outlets. At the same time, the growth of restaurants may bring new opportunities for local economies, but it also highlights the need for planners and policymakers to adapt to changing consumer habits.

Bad reviews push Airbnb hosts to rethink their positioning, study finds

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 11:10:15 +0100

A new study from �� has revealed that bad reviews often push Airbnb hosts to change the way they position their properties, sometimes with surprising results.

The research, carried out with colleagues from the University of Oxford and the University of Alberta, looked at more than 80,000 Airbnb hosts across major US cities. It found that when guests left negative reviews, hosts were much more likely to switch the category of their property - for example, moving a listing from “loft” to “apartment,” or from “tiny house” to “cottage.”

The study shows that these changes often happen not because hosts are constantly fine-tuning their positioning, but because they are reacting to complaints - in other words, hosts don’t usually rethink how their properties are categorised unless something goes wrong.

“Negative reviews are powerful - they don’t just influence potential guests, but they also make hosts question whether they’ve positioned their property in the right category,” said Dr Karl Taeuscher from Alliance �� Business School, the lead author of the research. “If customers say a listing isn’t what they expected, hosts often switch category in the hope of avoiding more complaints.”

The research found that the effect is strongest in categories where customers have diverse and sometimes conflicting expectations. For example, a “villa” or “loft” may mean very different things to different people, while a “houseboat” or “tent” comes with more obvious expectations. In these ambiguous categories, hosts were particularly likely to reposition their property after receiving poor feedback.

Interestingly, when hosts did make a switch, they usually chose categories that were close to their original one. Few hosts took the risk of moving their property into a completely different type. Instead, they tended to opt for categories that accommodate a wider range of features.

The study highlights how small businesses and individuals, like most Airbnb hosts, often don’t have the time or resources to constantly rethink their positioning strategies - instead, they tend to act only when problems arise.

The findings matter beyond Airbnb. Many online platforms, from Amazon to Etsy, rely on categories to help customers navigate. If businesses use categories that don’t quite fit, it can create mismatches between what buyers expect and what they get. This study suggests that finding the right category requires businesses to be receptive to customer feedback and open to revising their initial choice.

The research, titled Right on Cue? Category-Switching in Online Marketplaces, is published in the .

Professor Gerard Hodgkinson receives lifetime achievement award from British Academy of Management

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 14:24:08 +0100

Gerard P. Hodgkinson, Professor of Strategic Management and Behavioural Science at AMBS, has been awarded the Richard Whipp Lifetime Achievement Award by the British Academy of Management (BAM) in recognition of his various contributions to the field and management research.

About the Richard Whipp Lifetime Achievement Award

The Award is made in memory of Professor Richard Whipp, an outstanding scholar in the field of business and management and former Chair of BAM. It specifically recognises a career within the management field where the beneficiary will have done one or more of the following: enhanced a field of study, founded or effectively led a major national/international academic initiative, or provided unusually effective service to a major professional institution and/or the Academy.

Professor Hodgkinson’s Reflections

Said Professor Hodgkinson: “I’m delighted and humbled in equal measure, to have received this prestigious award, in recognition of my various contributions to research, BAM, and the wider management research community, over the course of the past 40 plus years.”

A Legacy of Achievement

Professor Hodgkinson was made a Fellow of BAM in 2001 and received the BAM Medal for Research in 2021. He is pictured receiving the Richard Whipp Award from Richard’s widow Anne Whipp.

Mentoring programme gives big mental health boost to LGBTQIA+ teens

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 13:04:37 +0100

A mentoring programme for LGBTQIA+ young people is making a real difference to their mental health, according to new research from ��.

The programme delivered by pairs young people aged 13 and over with trained mentors who understand the challenges LGBTQIA+ teens can face. Over regular one-to-one sessions, the mentors offer a safe space to talk, practical advice and support to help build confidence, reduce feelings of isolation and improve overall wellbeing.

LGBTQIA+ young people are more likely to struggle with mental health problems such as anxiety and depression compared to their heterosexual or cisgender peers. Many of these struggles are linked to experiences of discrimination, prejudice or feeling unable to be themselves.

Despite this, there’s been little solid evidence about which support services actually work - until now.

Researchers at �� compared the mental health of young people taking part with thousands of other teens from a large wellbeing study. The results were clear: those in Free2B's programme saw a strong and noticeable improvement in their mental wellbeing, much higher than what’s usually seen in similar support programmes.

“Free2B;s programme isn’t just helpful - it’s making a meaningful difference in young people’s lives,” said lead researcher Qiqi Cheng. “We saw real changes in how the participants felt about themselves and their future. Many started the programme feeling isolated, anxious, or unsure of how to cope with the challenges they were facing. By the end, they reported feeling more confident, supported, and hopeful. Programmes like this show that when young people have someone in their corner who understands them, it can completely shift their outlook.”

”The evidence is strong, and it should be part of the conversation on how we help vulnerable young people not just survive, but thrive," Neil added.

The experts say the next step is to study the programme in more detail, looking at whether the benefits last long term and whether it can also help reduce loneliness.

The study was funded by PBE, with wider support from the , The National Lottery Community Fund, and the Greater �� Combined Authority.

Creative �� appoints Deputy Director and new academic Research Leads

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 09:21:33 +0100

Since appointing its first research leads in 2022, Creative �� has continued to grow, nurturing exciting interdisciplinary research and convening research communities at �� and the city region. The three research themes - Creative Industries and Innovation, Civic and Creative Futures and Creativity, Health and Wellbeing - continue to remain relevant and are expanding in line with the aspirations set out in �� 2035, ��’s new 10-year strategy.

Creative �� Director, Professor John McAuliffe, said of the appointments:

The newly appointed Deputy Director, Dr Constance Smith, will work closely with Director, Professor John McAuliffe, the broader Creative �� team and management board to develop and coordinate activity across three core research themes, with a focus on internal stakeholders, advancing and coordinating interdisciplinary research and cross-School working.

is a Senior Lecturer in Social Anthropology at the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures in the Faculty of Humanities. Her research focus is the anthropology of architecture, time and urban change. She is interested in shifting landscapes of buildings, planning and infrastructure and how their materialities inflect ways of engaging with the past and anticipating the future.

Professor John McAuliffe commented:

The Research Theme Leads will work with the senior leadership team to further develop and help coordinate activity across their respective core research themes. They will convene and grow the Platform’s interdisciplinary research communities with both University and external partners, to address strategic opportunities.

Creative �� is pleased to announce that Dr Stephen Hicks has been re-appointed as Research Theme Lead for Creativity, Health and Wellbeing. Creative �� are also thrilled that Dr Riza Batista-Navarro will formally take up the Research Theme Lead role for Creative Industries and Innovation, following her work as maternity cover for former Research Lead Dr Claudia Henninger. Finally, Creative �� looks forward to welcoming Dr Anke Bernau to the academic team as Research Theme Lead for Civic and Creative Futures.

is a Senior Lecturer in Text Mining at the School of Computer Science in the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Her research focusses on the development of natural language processing methods for information extraction, explainable text classification, machine reading comprehension and language modelling. She has led a number of inter-disciplinary text mining projects, in which she developed computational approaches together with collaborators from various domains such as biomedicine, biodiversity, sustainability and online safety.

is a Senior Lecturer in Social Work (FBMH) and also a member of the Morgan Centre for Research into Everyday Lives. He has been the Creativity, Health and Wellbeing Research Lead for Creative �� since 2022 and has a professional background in child care/protection as a qualified and registered social worker. Steve has been involved in research projects on: LGBTQ parenting; social care and housing needs of older LGBTQ people; communities, neighbourhoods and belonging in modernist housing; and an interdisciplinary project on concerns about air quality/pollution and impact on local communities and environments. He has also been a volunteer in HIV/Aids services; homelessness support for young men and LGBTQ people; and LGBTQ adopters and foster-carers.

is a Senior Lecturer in Medieval Literature and Culture at the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures in the Faculty of Humanities. She has worked on a diverse range of topics, including female virginity, poetics, aesthetics, material culture and environmental humanities. She is particularly interested in recent work emerging out of Critical Plant Studies and is co-editing a special issue on 'Plant Temporalities', as well as a volume on the global cultural history of 'nature' in the Middle Ages.

Professor John McAuliffe reflects:

Creative �� is looking forward to working with Drs Constance Smith, Stephen Hicks, Riza Batista-Navarro and Anke Bernau, and would like to extend a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to Drs Claudia Henninger and Jenna Ashton for their important and impactful work as Research Theme Leads at Creative �� since 2022.

Festival celebrating ��’s medieval heritage returns for 2025

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0100

Thanks to the dedication of Manchester’s Dr Gillian Redfern and the support of the University’s Social Responsibility Fund, the �� Medieval Quarter Festival will return to the city on Saturday 27 September. The free, family-friendly festival will once again transform the area into a lively celebration of Manchester’s rich medieval heritage.

Now in its third edition since its launch in 2021, the festival continues its mission to shine a light on an area many residents are surprised to learn exists - the Medieval Quarter. Nestled beside the modern city centre, this historic area stretches from Chetham’s Library and School of Music to �� Cathedral, weaving through Shambles Square, the Corn Exchange and the National Football Museum.

The area tells the story of Manchester long before the Industrial Revolution. From the 10th-century parish church that grew into �� Cathedral to the 15th-century Collegiate buildings that became Chetham’s Library, the area is steeped in history. At the festival, the public will have the rare chance to explore these spaces for free - normally only accessible by paid tour - making the festival a unique opportunity to engage with the city’s past.

Visitors can look forward to an exciting programme of activities designed to bring medieval �� to life:

Saturday Scriptorium – Try your hand at medieval calligraphy using quills, ink and parchment in Chetham’s Library’s Baronial Hall, and take home your masterpiece.
Falconry Displays – Watch birds of prey soar in the courtyard and even try falconry with expert guidance.
Historical Re-enactments – Meet medieval re-enactors from Historia Normannis as they showcase tournaments, crafts, and costumes.
Medieval Drama – Boo, cheer, and hiss along with interactive student performances in Chetham’s Courtyard.
Guided Tours – Discover the story of the Medieval Quarter, including rare access to the remnants of the 14th-century Hanging Bridge, and enjoy tours of Manchester Cathedral.
Music of the Middle Ages – Immerse yourself in the sounds of the era with performances from the �� Troubadours.
Family Fun – Browse medieval-themed stalls, enjoy a fashion show, and soak up the atmosphere with food, picnics and live entertainment.

The festival will take place from 11am – 4pm. For more information, visit .

Not white, not seen: study uncovers France’s racial blind spot

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 16:20:34 +0100

A groundbreaking new study from �� has challenged traditional ideas of race and national identity in France, revealing how French citizens of Indian descent are navigating their identities in a society that often ignores them.

The research, led by Dr Manuela Latchoumaya from the University’s Department of Sociology and published in leading journal , explores the lived experiences of French people whose families come from former French colonies in India and the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe via the system of Indian indentured labour in the 19^th century.

Despite holding French passports and speaking fluent French, many of these citizens feel excluded from what it means to be “truly” French.

Using interviews with 21 people, the study paints a powerful picture of what it feels like to be treated as invisible in your own country - and how people push back.

“It’s not just about being seen as different,” said Dr Latchoumaya. “It’s about being completely left out of how the French think about who belongs.”

The study found that many French Indians are misidentified as Black or North African, two established categories in France that covertly operate to minoritise people with roots in the French Empire. Others are judged by outdated stereotypes - like being overly traditional or even exotic - based on ideas left over from colonial times. These experiences often begin in childhood and continue into adult life, especially in education, work and healthcare.

But rather than staying silent, many people are speaking up and taking control of their identity. Some proudly reclaim the label Black as a category of visibility, while also identifying as South Asian. Others challenge people who use offensive or outdated terms, and several participants said they now openly name ‘whiteness’ - the idea that being white is the default or “normal” in France - as part of the problem.

The study also highlights the deep impact of colonial history, showing how the French Empire shaped today’s ideas about identity, and how some communities - like those with Indian roots - have been left out of the national story.

This research is one of the first studies to centre the voices of French citizens of Indian descent, a group rarely studied in academic or public discussions about French imperial history. It is especially relevant today as France - and many other countries - grapple with their colonial past and while having increasingly diverse populations.

Three �� experts become Academy of Social Sciences Fellows

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 11:05:39 +0100

Three academics from �� have been recognised as leading experts in their fields by being named as Fellows of the Academy of Social Sciences.

New Fellows are named in recognition of their excellence and impact, and their advancement of social sciences for the public good. Through leadership, research and policymaking, they have deepened understanding of major societal challenges. The Academy comprises over 1,700 Fellows from academia, the public, private and third sectors as well as 46 societies and affiliates, forming a 90,000-strong network that cements the UK’s global leadership in social sciences.

Academy Fellows - who are selected through an independent peer review which recognises their excellence and impact - are elected for their excellence in their fields and their substantial contributions to social science for public benefit.

Joining them is Professor of Public Administration and Head of Politics Liz Richardson, an expert who advances democratic and inclusive policymaking through her knowledge of participatory urban governance, local politics, public services and innovative research methods. Recognised among the Local Government Information Unit’s Top 25 Thinkers, Liz bridges academic insight and civic practice to tackle complex local and global policy challenges. She has co-authored pivotal reports in the UK’s Public Design Evidence Review, shaping how design thinking can reinvigorate public services.

“I am delighted to be an ambassador for social science,” Liz said. “Academic research has the potential to create a more equitable society - such potential is greater when knowledge fosters scientific rigour as well as respect for the experiential expertise of participants.”

Also named as a new Fellow is Professor of Public Policy David Richards, an internationally recognised scholar who specialises in British politics, governance, democracy and institutional reform. His research investigates the relationship between political institutions, public policy and democratic accountability. He has co-authored influential works, including Institutional Crisis in 21st Century Britain, and leads major projects on Treasury–Whitehall financial relations and productivity governance. Widely published and frequently cited in national debate, he bridges academic insight and public discourse, shaping critical conversations about the challenges facing British democracy and the future of effective, accountable government.

Our third new Fellow is Professor of Urban Economics & Real Estate Anupam Nanda, an award-winning expert in the economics of property markets, urban and regional dynamics, real estate finance, investor sentiment, cross-border investment, ESG issues, and the role of technology in real estate. A prolific researcher, his papers feature in top journals such as Journal of Urban Economics, Real Estate Economics, Regional Studies, and Energy Economics. Alongside his academic research, he works with policymakers and industry to develop solutions for sustainable, resilient and fair urban and housing systems.

“I am pleased to be nominated to join the Academy and contribute to its crucial work in promoting the role of social sciences in my field and across other related fields,” said Anupam. “I look forward to working with other fellows of the Academy.”

President of the Academy, Will Hutton FAcSS, said, “It’s a pleasure to welcome more leading social scientists to the Academy’s Fellowship. Their research and practical applications have made substantial contributions to social science and wider society in a range of areas, and we look forward to working with them to promote further the vital role the social sciences play in all areas of our lives.”

Major new book asks whether addressing climate change requires stability or conflict

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0100

A landmark new book is set to change how we think about tackling the climate crisis. It asks a big question: when it comes to climate change, is it better to ‘lock in’ steady, long-term policies, or do we need dramatic political conflict and protests to force real change?

Stability and Politicization in Climate Governance is co-edited by and - both leading politics experts from �� - alongside from the University of Massachusetts Boston (USA). The book highlights that the debate between ‘stability’ and ‘politicisation’ isn't as simple as it seems.

For a long time, many policymakers believed that ‘stability’ was the key to successful climate action. This stability meant creating predictable rules that encourage businesses to invest in green solutions, or making laws that are difficult to roll back in the future.

However, the book reveals a significant problem: often, trying to keep things stable just means nothing really changes, which can actually slow down efforts to cut carbon. Studies in the book also show that a focus on stability can perpetuate existing inequalities, making it harder for marginalised communities to participate in climate action.

On the other hand, "politicisation" means bringing climate issues into the public spotlight, challenging powerful interests and sparking debate. The book shows how social movements like the Fridays for Future school strikes in Germany have successfully pushed governments to adopt more ambitious climate strategies. This kind of public pressure can show who really has the power and lead to significant policy changes, like demanding deadlines for phasing out coal.

However, building pressure isn't equally easy or safe for all communities. For some groups, like Muslim climate activists in the UK, engaging in protests can be risky because of existing unfairness in society. As one Muslim climate campaigner noted, "when you think about climate change, it is a social justice issue".

The book’s main message is that stability and politicisation aren't always opposites - they often interact in complex ways. What appears stable may hide underlying conflicts which eventually burst out, while political conflicts can sometimes lead to new forms of stability.

The book covers examples from around the world - from Brazil to China and South Africa to Norway - across all levels of society from grassroots street activists in California right up to global negotiations. The volume also tackles a wide range of policy areas and sectors including the fossil fuel industry, financial and insurance businesses and electricity companies.

It is available now, and free to read and download from .

80 Years of Occupational Health at ��

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 10:33:00 +0100

Registration ! Join us to celebrate 80 Years of Occupational Health Research at the University of Manchester.

The and the are delighted to invite you to a landmark event marking eight decades of research, training, and impact in Occupational Health at ��.

Date: Wednesday 1st October 2025
Venue: 18th floor, Hyatt Regency, 55 Booth St W, �� M15 6PQ
Time: 13:00 – 20:00 BST (multi part event - see important info below)
Register: Register on Eventbrite

From lightning talks and panel discussions to the prestigious Lane Lecture — delivered this year by Professor Malcolm Sim on The Artificial Stone Silicosis Epidemic: Lessons Learned for More Effective Prevention, and introduced by Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of Manchester — this is a unique opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and shape the future of occupational health.

Secure your free place now: (registration closes 24/09/2025)

Important:

The event is divided into multiple sessions. Please ensure you select tickets for each part that you wish to attend.
Due to capacity, attendees without a valid ticket for a specific session may be asked to leave that part of the event.
View the Full Programme (PDF):
Accessibility & Queries: If you have any queries, or need to discuss a PEEP (Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan) or other adjustments to support your attendance, please email: ashton@manchester.ac.uk

Art and Religion: FN Souza at Bradford Cathedral

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 13:45:18 +0100

(Lecturer of modern and contemporary British Art) will lead a conversation about the Goan artist Francis Newton Souza at Bradford Cathedral on Friday 3rd October 2025.

In Conversation: F N Souza in Focus has been organised to accompany the exhibition Jesus- Guru, Avatar, God? at Bradford Cathedral, organised by the Methodist Modern Art Collection (5 September -12 October 2025).

The exhibition features two works, The Crucifixion by Francis N Souza, and Dalit Madonna by Jyoti Sahi, and considers Christianity from South Asian perspectives.

Born in Goa in 1924, FN Souza lived and worked in London during the 1940s and 50s, before moving to New York in 1967. Alice Correia will introduce his work with the context of British modernist painting and consider his preoccupation with Christian imagery.

Throughout his career, Souza painted multiple Crucifixion scenes, including the work acquired by the Methodist Modern Art Collection in 1962.

Correia will reflect on the hybrid Catholic visual culture that developed in Goa – a former Portuguese colony on the west-coast of India – during the 16th and 17th centuries, and will consider the possible impact of Goa’s Baroque ecclesiastical architecture on Souza’s work.

Event Details

Name: In Conversation: F N Souza in Focus
Location: Bradford Cathedral
Date and Time: Friday 3 October, 6-9pm
Reserve your spot on the website.

TropiConnect Launches Digital Trade Platform to Redefine Global Agriculture

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 13:18:58 +0100

TropiConnect, a ��-based agri-tech startup founded by University of Manchester alumnus Mark Cuthbert, has officially launched its innovative agri-trade platform: .

With several successful pilots, the platform empowers farming cooperatives across Africa by connecting them directly with global buyers, enabling transparent, sustainable, and fair trade in tropical agriculture.

The launch follows TropiConnect’s recent recognition as the Venture Further Award (VFA) Winner, presented by the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre, celebrating the startup’s vision to transform agricultural supply chains with technology.

TropiConnect is already partnering with farmer cooperatives representing over 200,000 farmers across East and West Africa, while building high-level collaborations with Innovate UK, the United Nations, and government organisations across the continent. From coffee and cocoa to cashew nuts, sesame seeds, and tropical fruits, TropiConnect is positioning itself as the go-to gateway for sourcing Africa’s finest agricultural products in one trusted platform. Leveraging AI and blockchain technology, the platform ensures traceability, competitive pricing,and efficient trade facilitation.

The company’s close ties with the University of Manchester’s innovation ecosystem have been instrumental in its growth. Support from the University’s R&D collaborations, has strengthened TropiConnect’s ability to scale and innovate.

For more information, visit or

How an ancient document secured the power of the ‘first King of England’

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:46:39 +0100

An expert from �� has revealed how a single sheet of 1,100-year-old parchment may have been used to heal a dangerous royal rift in Ancient England.

King Æthelstan, who is generally known as the first King of England, began his rule almost exactly 1,100 years ago when he was crowned at Kingston on 4 September 925. While history books usually paint his reign as powerful and secure, Dr Jonathan Tickle has found that his early years on the throne were far from smooth sailing - especially in the city of Winchester, where loyalties to a rival prince ran deep.

The story centres on a document now known as “Sawyer 1417” – a lease of farmland agreed between the monks of Winchester’s New Minster and a royal official named Ælfred. On the surface, it looks like a simple property deal. But Dr Tickle’s analysis reveals it was also a carefully staged public event designed to send a political message, patch up strained relationships, and remind everyone who was really in charge.

At the time, Æthelstan faced opposition from supporters of his younger half-brother Eadwine, who some believed had a stronger claim to the throne. The New Minster was a key player in this drama - not only was it home to the tombs of Æthelstan’s father Edward the Elder and grandfather Alfred the Great, but it also stood in a city that may have backed Eadwine.

The charter was read aloud in an assembly packed with nobles, monks, and townsfolk. Its language tied the land deal to the memory of Alfred and Edward, anchoring the king’s authority in his famous ancestors. By setting the rent payment on the anniversary of Edward’s death, the agreement turned a routine transaction into a yearly reminder of Æthelstan’s royal lineage.

“This wasn’t just about farming rights. It was a performance – a way of reshaping alliances, cooling tensions, and making a statement about the king’s rightful place in history. The document itself became a lasting reminder of that moment,” said Dr Tickle.

The research also suggests that monks kept their copy of the charter safe for generations, possibly consulting it at annual rent payments or during disputes – ensuring the king’s message lived on.

By looking at this 1,100-year-old parchment not just as a legal record but as a piece of political theatre, the study opens a new window into how early English kings built and maintained their power.

The full article, ‘’, is published in the Journal of Medieval History.

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Research finds that focusing on ‘luxury tourism’ may not benefit African nations

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:27:29 +0100

Many African countries have attempted to attract high-spending tourists in order to create economic success - but new research published in African Studies Review reveals that this strategy might not be as beneficial as it seems, and some countries are struggling to change course.

For decades, organisations like the World Bank advised African nations to focus on “luxury tourism”. The idea was to attract wealthy visitors who spend a lot per day, leading to "high-value, low-impact" tourism, which promised benefits for the environment and local communities. It sounds great on paper, and it helps countries to look like "green states" committed to sustainability.

However, critics are calling this "fake degrowth" as luxury tourists often arrive in private jets, which are much worse for the environment than regular flights. Plus, relying on international travellers - especially from far-flung places like Europe and North America - creates a higher global carbon footprint. But the problems don't stop there. The research found that luxury tourism often leads to:

• Enclaves: huge resorts or national parks that are separate from local life, with limited connections to the wider economy.
• Limited Local Benefits: these places hire few local workers, don't help communities improve their infrastructure, and are mostly all-inclusive, meaning tourists don't buy from smaller local businesses.
• Foreign Control: The most profitable eco-tourism lodges and conservation areas are often owned by foreign companies.
• "Leakages": the money tourists spend doesn't stay in the country. It goes to foreign travel agencies or is used to pay for imported goods for hotels, or profits are sent back to foreign owners.
• Increased Inequality: profits are concentrated among foreign operators or a small group of wealthy locals, while general wages in tourism jobs are often low. In Mauritius, for example, many locals feel like "foreigners are taking over the island" and don't even have access to their own best beaches.

The study highlights a surprising finding. When these luxury strategies don't deliver, democratic governments like Mauritius and Botswana - which face political pressure like upcoming elections or public anger over unemployment and inequality - are more flexible and have tried to adapt their strategies.

However, authoritarian governments like Rwanda with strong, centralised control tend to stick to their long-term luxury goals even when problems arise. Despite high unemployment and recent economic shocks, Rwanda has doubled down on its luxury tourism - its government believes this strategy will eventually pay off in the long run, even if it ignores short-term inequalities.

“This study challenges common ideas about which types of governments are better at development,” said Dr Behuria. “It shows that sometimes, political pressure in democracies can lead to more flexible and responsive policies than the long-term, rigid plans of authoritarian states.”

Book by �� academic shortlisted for Royal Society prize

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 14:44:39 +0100

A historian from �� has been named as one of six authors shortlisted for the 2025 Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize, which celebrates the best popular science writing from across the globe.

by Professor Sadiah Qureshi was named as one of the finalists at the Edinburgh International Book Festival by author and palaeontologist Steve Brusatte, following an event with the Prize’s 2024 winner Kelly Weinersmith.

The Royal Society Science Book Prize has championed non-fiction books that celebrate the collective joy of science writing for more than 30 years. Previous winning titles cover diverse themes, ranging from the sensory experiences of animals to the evolution of all life on earth, and a fresh perspective on human behaviour and relationships.

All of this year’s authors make the shortlist for the first time, with books that cover an array of important scientific topics through compelling and accessible storytelling. The shortlisted titles represent the judges’ pick of the most fascinating and relevant science writing over the past 12 months.

Professor Qureshi is a writer and historian of science, race and empire. Currently a Chair of Modern British History at the University of Manchester, she has written for the London Review of Books, Times Literary Supplement and New Statesman.

Vanished is a compelling exploration of how the modern concept of extinction has been shaped not just by science but by empire, racism and the politics of disappearance, and it urges us to reckon with extinction as both an evolutionary fate and a deliberate choice.

“This book shows us why science is not a neutral subject - from the human-driven extinction of the dodo to the justification of indigenous peoples being killed based on false racial hierarchy, politics has been woven into scientific decision-making throughout history,” said previous prize winner Roma Agrawal, who was on the judging panel. “This is an updated and refreshing perspective of a story we ought to know about. Qureshi’s writing is thoroughly readable, while being extremely well researched, opening up a new and important conversation about natural history.”

The winner of this year’s Prize will be revealed on the evening of 1 October 2025, where they will be presented with a cheque for £25,000. Each of the five shortlisted authors will receive a cheque for £2,500.

Winners of the 2024-2025 Adam Kay Prize announced

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 16:42:37 +0100

The Department of Art History and Cultural Practices is pleased to announce the winners of the 2024-2025 Adam Kay Prize for an Outstanding Dissertation in Art History are:

Rui Long for Performing Contemporaneity: Interculturality and Embodied Feminism in XieRong’s Body Art
Jasmine Abdel-Kader for Constructing Purity, Excluding Desire: The Aryan Ideal and Homoerotic Undercurrents in Nazi Visual Culture.

Rui Long said:

Jasmine Abdel-Kader commented:

�� experts join national project to combat NHS fraud

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:26:53 +0100

Two leading criminologists from �� are playing a key role in a groundbreaking national research project designed to tackle fraud in the NHS, which costs the UK taxpayer an estimated £1.3 billion each year.

The initiative, known as Project SCAN (Strengthening Counter-Fraud Across the NHS in England), is led by Northumbria University and brings together experts from across the UK to improve understanding and responses to fraud within the health service.

Funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), the 32-month study will generate robust evidence on the nature and organisation of counter-fraud strategies in the NHS in England, and how these strategies can be strengthened.

It will explore multiple dimensions of fraud risk in the NHS, from procurement and payroll to patient identity and prescription fraud. It will also look at how data and technology can support prevention efforts and how public sector institutions can be better equipped to respond to emerging threats.

The project will involve collaboration with NHS bodies, frontline counter-fraud professionals and other academic partners across the UK. Results will be disseminated through public reports, practitioner briefings, academic publications, and policy engagement events.

By generating evidence-based recommendations, Project SCAN aims to inform national policy and practice, ultimately helping to safeguard public money and ensure NHS services remain sustainable and fair for all.

��’s Professor Nicholas Lord and Dr Katie Benson, both from the University’s Department of Criminology, have previously led and contributed to high-profile studies into economic and white-collar crime, working with varied public and private organisations. In Project SCAN they will focus on the practical delivery of local counter fraud provision across NHS organisations.

“Understanding how counter fraud work is carried out is important for improving its effectiveness," added Dr Benson. ”Our research will better understand the experiences of those delivering these services, identifying what challenges they face and what support they need. This insight is vital for shaping a more strategic and joined-up approach to tackling fraud across the NHS."

Experts reveal how migration between South America and Europe has changed

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 12:00:00 +0100

A new study from experts at �� has uncovered how people have moved between South America and Europe over the past 35 years, and how those patterns might change in the future.

The research, led by Dr Andrea Lisette Aparicio Castro and Professor Arkadiusz Wiśniowski from the Department of Social Statistics, looks at where people moved, why they moved, and what might happen by the year 2050.

In the early 1900s, many Europeans moved to South America to find work and a better life. But in more recent times, the direction has changed - now, more people are moving from South America to Europe. Until now, it’s been difficult to understand exactly how these movements work because the data from different countries didn’t match up.

To fix that, the research team collected census data from 30 countries and used a smart model to fill in the gaps and correct errors. This gave them a clear and complete picture of migration between 1985 and 2018, and helped them to make educated guesses about how migration will look in the future.

The study showed that many people from countries like Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela moved to Spain, while Brazilians often went to Portugal. These moves were often easier because of shared languages and cultural history.

“We wanted to understand not just how many people moved, but why,” said Dr Aparicio Castro. “We found that people’s decisions are influenced by things like education, job opportunities, family ties, language, and even natural disasters like floods.”

The team also looked ahead to 2050. They found that as Europe’s population gets older, more workers from South America may be needed to help fill jobs - especially in healthcare and services. At the same time, education levels in South America are rising, which could mean more skilled workers moving to Europe.

The research was a partnership with the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis, and is published in the journal .

�� expert sheds light on what it means to be middle-aged

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0100

A new study by Dr Amy Barron from ��’s Department of Geography is shining a light on a part of life which is often overlooked - middle-age.

While a lot of research focuses on the very young or very old, middle-age - often seen as the longest phase of life - rarely gets much attention. Dr Barron’s work looks at what middle-age actually means to people living through it, and why it's important to understand this period more fully.

Through interviews with people aged between 52 and 67 from Greater ��, the study explored how people define and experience being “in the middle” of life. Rather than looking for strict age ranges or one-size-fits-all answers, participants were asked to reflect on their own experiences and how they see themselves.

Many shared that middle-age feels like a time of reflection, transition and sometimes uncertainty. It’s a phase where people are no longer young, but don’t yet feel old. Some spoke about feeling “stuck” in their careers, or about health issues which made them more aware of their age. Others mentioned enjoying the freedom that comes with no longer having young children to care for, or having more financial stability.

One participant joked that calling herself “middle-aged” would only make sense if she planned to live to 120. Another said middle-age was more about mindset than years, while a third described it as a time to plan for a “good” older age, even while resisting the label “old.”

The research encourages people - and especially other researchers - to pay more attention to what happens in the middle of life, and not just focus on ‘childhood’, ‘youth’ and ‘older age’. Dr Barron suggests we need ways of thinking about ageing that don’t rely on fixed stages or categories, because life is always in motion, always changing and our lives often don’t follow a linear path.

She also notes that everyone experiences middle-age differently - life events, family, health, work and even global events like the COVID-19 pandemic all shape how people feel about this time in their lives.

The study, published in journal Social & Cultural Geography, offers important lessons for researchers, policymakers and the public. By listening to how people make sense of their lives, especially during the long stretch of middle-age, we can better support their needs - and challenge the idea that middle-age is boring or unimportant.

Expert calls for return to fairness and global solidarity after aid budget cuts

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0100

As global leaders cut back on foreign aid in the face of rising nationalism and domestic pressures, a new paper by Dr Pritish Behuria of Manchester says it is time to remember why aid was created in the first place – and why it is still desperately needed.

In the paper published by the , one of the world’s leading think tanks for development policy, Dr Behuria argues that today’s debates about foreign aid have lost sight of the big picture. Instead of focusing only on whether aid ‘works’ or whether it is ‘value for money’, we should be looking at the roots of global inequality. His message is simple: aid isn't charity - it's about justice.

In 2025, the US government led by President Trump froze most of its foreign aid, and many European countries - including the UK - have also slashed their contributions. Politicians say the money is better spent at home, but Dr Behuria warns that this could lead to greater global instability and inequality.

His paper explains that many poorer countries still rely heavily on aid, especially when they face big trade gaps - meaning they import more than they export and don't have enough foreign currency. These trade problems often date back to colonial times, when countries were forced to rely on exporting raw materials like coffee, cocoa or oil. That dependence hasn’t gone away.

In the past, aid helped these countries avoid economic crises. But over time, aid became more about short-term goals like fighting poverty or improving health, and less about helping countries grow strong, independent economies. “We’ve forgotten that aid used to be about helping countries stand on their own two feet,” says Dr Behuria.

The research also takes aim at what’s called ‘Global Development’ - a newer idea that treats poverty in rich countries the same as poverty in poorer ones. While this sounds fair, Dr Behuria says it confuses the issue and weakens the case for giving aid to the countries that need it most. “Yes, there’s poverty in London and New York - but that’s not the same as poverty in Malawi or Bangladesh,” he explains.

Dr Behuria calls for a new way of thinking - what he terms a “structuralist” approach - where we tackle the deep, historical roots of inequality between nations. He says academics, governments, and the public all need to reconnect with the original purpose of aid: correcting global injustice.

Humanitarian and Conflict Response Institute appoints new director

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 16:44:37 +0100

�� has appointed the globally-renowned international relations expert Professor Nicolas Lemay-Hébert as the new Director of the .

Professor Lemay-Hébert joins the HCRI from the Australian National University (ANU), where most recently he was Deputy Director (Education) of the Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs. Before joining the ANU in 2019, he previously held positions at the University of Birmingham and the University of Quebec in Montreal.

In his work, Professor Lemay-Hébert has researched issues of local resistance to international interventions, as well as statebuilding and peacebuilding. He has conducted fieldwork in the separatist regions of Georgia, Kosovo, Timor-Leste, Haiti and more recently Kenya. He has published two monographs - The Law and Practice of Peacekeeping (with R. Freedman and S. Wills; Cambridge University Press, 2021), and Normalization in World Politics (with G. Visoka; University of Michigan Press, 2022).

His next book is under production with Cambridge University Press (International Leviathans: International Administration). In his latest work, Professor Lemay-Hébert has been interested in the political economy and the political geography of intervention.

He is currently completing an Australian Research Council Discovery Grant on The Cartography of Peace: Security Zones, Color Codes and Everyday Life, through which he and a team of researchers are analysing a number of colour-coded zoning practices around the world (green zones in Afghanistan or Cyprus; yellow zone in Haiti; blue zone in Kenya; red zone in Iraq).

"I hope to contribute to the growth of the institute, which has been phenomenal in the past 15 years, and help position the institute for the new challenges emerging around the world."

"The HCRI has always been known for its excellence in research and teaching, and for its policy-relevant work, engaging a multitude of stakeholders on the ground. I plan to build on this track record to further consolidate the HCRI's position in the UK, Europe and beyond as one of the key institutes to study and do research in humanitarian, disaster, global health and peace and conflict studies."

Professor Lemay-Hébert will lead an Institute at the forefront of research in humanitarian, conflict and disaster studies, as well as a thriving teaching unit at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. HCRI’s teaching portfolio includes a pioneering - and in the current times of global conflict, ever more important - joint degree programme in Humanitarian Practice, in collaboration with Médecins Sans Frontières and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine.

Project breaks the silence around death in primary schools

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 13:07:38 +0100

A powerful new initiative is set to transform how children talk about death, dying, and bereavement. The project - a collaboration between the universities of Manchester, Bradford and Wolverhampton, Child Bereavement UK and the Child Bereavement Network - features brand new poems by legendary children’s author and former Children’s Laureate Michael Rosen, whose work has helped generations of young readers explore life’s most profound emotions with honesty and humour.

Funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), the 10-month pilot will work with primary schools to create age-appropriate, creative, and compassionate ways to explore life, death, and everything in between.

Led by Professor Karina Croucher, Professor of Archaeology, Heritage and Wellbeing at the University of Bradford, the project uses archaeology to start conversations around death and bereavement. “It’s about helping young people to talk about death, dying and bereavement, challenging what is almost a taboo in society,” said Professor Croucher. “We’re using archaeology and global practices to show how diverse our responses to death can be – and how we can celebrate life in the process.”

Dr Jane Booth, Senior Lecturer in Sociology and Social Policy at the University of Wolverhampton, is part of the team delivering weekly workshops in two primary schools – Wycliffe CE Primary in Shipley, West Yorkshire and St Joseph’s in Sale, ��. “The project is about normalising and validating feelings around death, dying, care-giving and grief resilience,” said Dr Booth. “It’s about saying it’s OK to talk about these subjects – and giving children the tools to do so.”

Beloved children’s author and poet Michael Rosen is writing new poems to accompany the project’s workshops, helping children explore their emotions through creative expression.

The project will run from September 2025 and is open to pupils aged five to 11 as part of their PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) education. Children will explore not only bereavement but other forms of loss – such as the death of a pet or a friend moving away – through archaeology-inspired art and poetry. Parents will be invited to information sessions and can choose whether their children take part.

‘Lost and Found’ builds on the success of previous AHRC-funded projects, including ‘Continuing Bonds’ and ‘Dying 2 Talk’, which used archaeology to support conversations about death in secondary schools. The new pilot will result in a workshop resource pack for other schools to replicate the approach.

This initiative also aligns with the UK Government’s recent inclusion of grief education in .

‘Lost and Found’ builds on nearly £100,000 in AHRC funding and follows two earlier projects: and . These initiatives explored how archaeology can support conversations about death, dying, and bereavement in non-medicalised, creative ways.

Continuing Bonds brought together archaeologists, healthcare professionals, and psychologists to explore legacy and loss, while Dying 2 Talk co-produced resources with secondary school pupils, using artefacts and workshops to help young people reflect on grief and caregiving through the lens of the past.

�� expert collaborates on major study evaluating active travel improvements

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 11:30:35 +0100

An expert from �� has played a key role in a new research study evaluating the impact of active travel infrastructure improvements at Delapre Park in Northampton.

Working in collaboration with researchers from the University of Northampton and Nottingham Trent University, Leverhulme Early Career Fellow Dr Jack Benton helped deliver a year-long study designed to assess how new pathways in the park have influenced public use and perceptions of the area.

The project, funded by Active Travel England, aimed to understand the real-world impact of investment in walking, wheeling, and cycling infrastructure. It employed a mixed-methods approach incorporating resident surveys, in-depth interviews, on-site observations and GPS tracking to evaluate how improvements to path surfaces and layouts affected accessibility, safety, and comfort for a broad range of users - including those living with long-term health conditions.

Initial findings show that the new routes have led to measurable benefits in terms of increased access, improved feelings of safety, and greater comfort for park users. In particular, small infrastructure changes were found to significantly enhance mobility for those with disabilities and other physical challenges.

Dr Benton emphasised the value of listening to the lived experiences of local people when designing infrastructure to support healthier, more active communities.

“It’s been fantastic to collaborate with researchers in Northampton and Nottingham on this natural experimental study, which evaluated the impact of improvements to local walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure,” he said.

The study sets out clear recommendations for further improvements, based on direct community feedback. These insights are expected to inform future active travel strategies both locally and nationally.

The full report is available here: .

Social Sciences students come top in President’s achievement awards

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 11:46:08 +0100

Roan Goulden, second-year Law student transitioning to final year, has been named as Undergraduate Student of the Year for the Faculty of Humanities.

The title recognises Roan’s extensive contribution to criminal justice through his multiple roles in the Innocence Project, Bar Society and International Wrongful Convictions Task Force.

Claire McGourlay, Professor of Legal Education who nominated Roan for the award, said:

Roan’s commitment to supporting victims of miscarriage through the Innocence Project earned him and his team the �� Law Society’s Pro Bono Award. As the project’s student manager, he mentors students on handling cases and ensures the public knows of the project’s impact and work.

Roan also leads on helping students pursue careers as barristers in his role as the Bar Society’s Treasurer. Through his membership in the International Wrongful Convictions Task Force, he works with students, lawyers and academics to develop the international law on wrongful conviction rights.

Niamh Cashell, a PhD student, has also been recognised as the Faculty’s Postgraduate Research Student of the Year.

Niamh has made significant contributions to academic leadership, public engagement, and responsible innovation. As Secretary of the Political Studies Association’s Early Career Network, she provided strategic leadership and administrative coordination, organising a virtual conference with over 70 early career researchers and co-leading an in-person Early Career Day at the PSA Annual Conference in 2024.

Niamh's commitment to research impact extended beyond academia, completing an ESRC-funded internship with the BBC’s Responsible Innovation Centre, where she produced a report on AI-generated images in UK political contexts.

Rachel Gibson, Professor of Political Science and Niamh’s PhD supervisor said:

She has also won the �� Doctoral College Excellence Award for Research Impact.

�� expert helps shape groundbreaking review on public design

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 17:37:55 +0100

An expert from �� has contributed to a major new government review which suggests that public design - an approach that brings citizens and designers into policymaking - could help to ensure that public services consistently achieve their goals.

The is the most comprehensive exploration yet of how design thinking can transform public services. Spearheaded by the Cabinet Office and drawing on expertise across government and academia, it brings together global case studies, academic insights and frontline government perspectives. It invites policy professionals to reimagine how we create value through more human-centred, collaborative public services.

Professor Liz Richardson, from the Department of Politics at ��, played a key role in the landmark project. She co-authored two of the PDER’s core reports, which examine the promise and potential of public design in modern governance.

One of her reports reviewed evidence on whether public design truly delivers public value - finding promising signs that, when done well, it can deepen collaboration, uncover fresh insights into how people experience services, and stimulate innovation by involving diverse voices in co-creation.

Professor Richardson also contributed to a major academic commentary in the review, setting out the current research landscape and future priorities for both academics and policymakers.

Reflecting on the work, she said: “Design could offer a fresh portfolio of ways to design and deliver high-performing public policies. Public design is part of a rich landscape of policy innovation. We are heartened by growing academic and policy interest in a family of ‘positive’ approaches to public policy (PoPP), including public design.”

The PDER was coordinated by the Policy Profession Unit, prepared for publication in the Department for Work and Pensions, and launched by the Cabinet Office with support from the University of the Arts London.

The report represents a true cross-sector effort to rethink how government can better serve the public. Professor Richardson’s involvement highlights how academic research can directly shape public services, and help to build more responsive, trusted and inclusive government.

Togo’s ‘Nana-Benz’: how cheap Chinese imports of African fabrics have hurt the famous women traders

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 13:35:29 +0100

The manufacturing of African print textiles has shifted to China in the 21st century. While they are widely consumed in African countries – and symbolic of the continent – the rise of “made in China” has undermined the African women traders who have long shaped the retail and distribution of this cloth.

For many decades , the Dutch textile group which traces its origins to 1846 and whose products had been supplied to west Africa by European trading houses since the late 19th century, dominated manufacture of the cloth. But in the last 25 years dozens of factories in China have begun to supply African print textiles to west African markets. Qingdao Phoenix Hitarget Ltd, Sanhe Linqing Textile Group and Waxhaux Ltd are among the best known.

We conducted to establish how the rise of Chinese-made cloth has affected the African print textiles trade. We focused on Togo. Though it’s a tiny country with a population of , the capital city, Lomé, is the trading hub in west Africa for the textiles.

We conducted over 100 interviews with traders, street sellers, port agents or brokers, government officials and representatives of manufacturing companies to learn about how their activities have changed.

“Made in China” African print textiles are substantially cheaper and more accessible to a wider population than Vlisco fabric. Our market observations in Lomé’s famous Assigamé market found that Chinese African print textiles cost about 9,000 CFA (US$16) for six yards – one complete outfit. Wax Hollandais (50,000 CFA or US$87) cost over five times more.

Data is hard to come by, but our estimates suggest that 90% of imports of these textiles to Lomé port in 2019 came from China.

One Togolese trader summed up the attraction: “Who could resist a cloth that looked similar, but that cost much less than real Vlisco?”

Our research shows how the rise of China manufactured cloth has undermined Vlisco’s once dominant market share as well as the monopoly on the trade of Dutch African print textiles that Togolese traders once enjoyed.

The traders, known as Nana-Benz because of the expensive cars they drove, once enjoyed an economic and political significance disproportionate to their small numbers. Their political influence was such that they were key backers of Togo’s first – himself a former director of the United Africa Company, which distributed Dutch cloth.

In turn, Olympio and long-term leader General Gnassingbé Eyadéma provided policy favours – such as low taxes – to support trading activity. In the 1970s, African print textile trade was considered as significant as the phosphate industry – .

Nana-Benz have since been displaced – their numbers falling from 50 to about 20. Newer Togolese traders – known as Nanettes or “little Nanas” – have taken their place. While they have carved out a niche in mediating the textiles trade with China, they have lower economic and political stature. In turn, they too are increasingly threatened by Chinese competition, more recently within trading and distribution as well.

China displaces the Dutch

Dating back to the colonial period, African women traders have played essential roles in the wholesale and distribution of Dutch cloth in west African markets. As many countries in the region attained independence from the 1950s onwards, Grand Marché – or Assigamé – in Lomé became the hub for African print textile trade.

While neighbouring countries such as Ghana limited imports as part of efforts to promote domestic industrialisation, Togolese traders secured favourable conditions. These included low taxes and use of the port.

Togolese women traders knew the taste of predominantly female, west African customers better than their mostly male, Dutch designers. The Nana-Benz were brought into the African print textile production and design process, selecting patterns and giving names to designs they knew would sell.

They acquired such wealth from this trade that they earned the Nana-Benz nickname from the cars they purchased and which they used to collect and move merchandise.

Nana-Benz exclusivity of trading and retailing of African print textiles cloth in west African markets has been disrupted. As Vlisco has responded to falling revenues – over 30% in the first five years of the 21st century – due to its Chinese competition, Togolese traders’ role in the supply chain of Dutch cloth has been downgraded.

In response to the flood of Chinese imports, the Dutch manufacturer re-positioned itself as a luxury fashion brand and placed greater focus on the marketing and distribution of the textiles.

Vlisco has opened several boutique stores in west and central Africa, starting with Cotonou (2008), Lomé (2008) and Abidjan (2009). The surviving Nana-Benz – an estimated 20 of the original 50 – operate under contract as retailers rather than traders and must follow strict rules of sale and pricing.

While newer Togolese traders known as Nanettes are involved in the sourcing of textiles from China, they have lower economic and political stature. Up to 60 are involved in the trade.

Former street sellers of textiles and other petty commodities, Nanettes began travelling to China in the early to mid-2000s to source African print textiles. They are involved in commissioning and advising on the manufacturing of African print textiles in China and the distribution in Africa.

While many Nanettes order the common Chinese brands, some own and market their own. These include what are now well-known designs in Lomé and west Africa such as “Femme de Caractère”, “Binta”, “Prestige”, “Rebecca Wax”, “GMG” and “Homeland”.

Compared to their Nana-Benz predecessors, the Nanettes carve out their business from the smaller pie available from the sale of cheaper Chinese cloth. Though the volumes traded are large, the margins are smaller due to the much lower final retail price compared to Dutch cloth.

After procuring African print textiles from China, Nanettes sell wholesale to independent local traders or “sellers” as well as traders from neighbouring countries. These sellers in turn break down the bulk they have purchased and sell it in smaller quantities to independent street vendors.

All African print textiles from China arrive in west Africa as an incomplete product – as six-yard or 12-yard segments of cloth, not as finished garments. Local tailors and seamstresses then make clothes according to consumer taste. Some fashion designers have also opened shops where they sell prêt-à-porter (ready-to-wear) garments made from bolts of African print and tailored to local taste. Thus, even though the monopoly of the Nana-Benz has been eroded, value is still added and captured locally.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinese actors have become more involved in trading activity – and not just manufacturing. The further evolution of Chinese presence risks an even greater marginalisation of locals, already excluded from manufacturing, from the trading and distribution end of the value chain. Maintaining their role – tailoring products to local culture and trends and linking the formal and informal economy – is vital not just for Togolese traders, but also the wider economy.

, Reader, Global Development Institute, and , Postdoctoral fellow, Duke Africa Initiative,

This article is republished from under a Creative Commons license. Read the .

Natalie Shlomo wins ESRA Outstanding Service Award

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 11:26:30 +0100

, Professor of Social Statistics in the , , was awarded the European Survey Research Association (ESRA) 2025 Outstanding Service Award at the recent ESRA Conference held in Utrecht, Netherlands, July 14-18, 2025.

The ESRA Outstanding Service Award acknowledges sustained and high-level contributions to European survey research, either of a methodological, substantive or infrastructural nature. Nominations are made and voted on by members of the ESRA Committee.

Natalie publishes widely in areas of survey statistics and survey methodology, including survey design and estimation, adaptive survey designs, small area estimation, non-probability sampling, data linkage and integration, confidentiality and privacy.

She is an elected member of the International Statistical Institute (ISI), a fellow of the Royal Statistical Society, a fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences and President 2023-2025 of the International Association of Survey Statisticians. She also serves on editorial boards and international Methodology Advisory Boards at National Statistical Institutes.

In her acceptance speech for the award, Natalie noted that survey methodology and survey statistics are becoming increasingly important. She emphasised the need for high-quality randomised probability-based survey data to evaluate accuracy and mitigate biases in non-survey data sources, such as administrative data, big data and non-probability samples. She mentioned that only through the knowledge and understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of statistical methods and inference can we truly move forward into the digital and AI era.

Alice Correia curates an online exhibition of British-Asian photographer Mumtaz Karimjee

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 14:33:32 +0100

, lecturer of modern and contemporary British Art, has curated the first retrospective consideration of Mumtaz Karimjee’s career as an artist and curator.

is an open access online exhibition, published as part of the landmark special issue of British Art Studies, Queer Art in Britain since the 1980s, edited by Fiona Anderson, Flora Dunster, Theo Gordon and Laura Guy.

Trained as a linguist, Mumtaz Karimjee was a self-taught photographer and during the 1980s was a central figure in feminist and queer activism. She curated the first exhibition of female Indian photographers in the UK, was a key-member of Mukti, a grassroots feminist magazine produced by and for women of South Asian heritage, and her photography was included in exhibition of Black women artists curated by Lubaina Himid.

Her work was recently included in Women in Revolt at the Whitworth, but Correia’s exhibition, Mumtaz Karimjee: Making Visible is the first solo presentation of Karimjee’s work in over 30 years.

Professor Ada Wossink leads key discussions at Westminster Energy Forum

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 14:14:06 +0100

Ada Wossink, Professor of Environmental Economics, delivered a keynote address and chaired part of the proceedings at the .

The event provided a platform for key stakeholders and policymakers to discuss the findings from the , focusing on key areas of risk and priority actions moving forward.

The discussions centred on aligning existing frameworks such as Environmental Land Management schemes and Biodiversity Net Gain frameworks, in order to preserve ecosystems, support climate adaptation, and balance competing land-use. Sessions also addressed the challenges for sustainable and reliable food production, maintaining habitats and supporting the farming community. Further discussions included improving water resources and the practical steps needed to accelerate habitat restoration and species protection.

Other notable speakers at the conference included Dame Glenys Stacey, Chair, Office of Environmental protection, Georgie Barber, Countryside and Land Use Lead, Food, Farming and Countryside Commission who also delivered keynote addresses. The House of Lords was represented by the Earl of Devon.

Ada Wossink reflects:

HCRI Outstanding Student Citizenship Award winners

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 14:02:36 +0100

During this graduation season, the Humanitarian & Conflict Response Institute (HCRI) is recognising undergraduate students on our International Disaster Management & Humanitarian Response and also intercalated Global Health programmes with awards, including Outstanding Student Citizenship, Academic Excellence, and Outstanding Dissertation.

The Outstanding Student Citizenship award is unique in that it is not based on grades or academic work, instead allowing staff to nominate those individuals who have gone above and beyond in all aspects of university life.

Congratulations to this year’s awardees. We hear from the academics who nominated them, and the awardees, below:

Maisy Wood

Selim Iyidirli

Bradley Williams

Congratulations again to all of our student awardees, and the whole Class of 2025, who we at HCRI are extremely proud of.

New book offers fascinating insight into University’s 200-year history

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 12:06:16 +0100

A fascinating new book published by �� has cast a new spotlight on how the institution’s campus has been shaped over two centuries of architectural change.

Titled Building Towards the Bicentenary: A Campus History of the University of Manchester 1824-2024, the richly illustrated volume offers a unique exploration of how the University’s built environment reflects its evolving identity.

Co-edited by Dr Martin Dodge from the University’s Department of Geography alongside historian and former Head of Heritage Dr James Hopkins, the book combines academic insight with accounts of changes on campus.

Drawing on rarely seen archive material, historical maps and photography, the book charts the transformation of the University’s buildings and public spaces - from the earliest days of the Mechanics’ Institute to the modernist developments of the 1960s through to the present day.

The publication includes detailed chapters on iconic buildings such as Whitworth Hall, the John Rylands Library and Jodrell Bank’s Lovell telescope, as well as little known aspects of campus history including lost rivers, nuclear reactors, Toblerone-shaped halls of residences and unrealised plans for an underground station.

The book particularly highlights the architectural significance of Owens College, and how its Gothic Revival buildings designed by Alfred Waterhouse established a distinct identity in Victorian ��. These early structures set a tone of civic ambition and intellectual seriousness that still echoes through the campus today.

A dedicated section also explores the post-war expansion of science and engineering facilities at the University, driven by Cold War priorities and rising student numbers. It examines the rapid, often pragmatic construction of labs and lecture theatres, many of which defined the university’s mid-20th-century landscape.

“This book offers the public a chance to see behind the scenes - to understand why buildings were built the way they were, and how the campus continues to evolve to meet the needs of students, researchers and the wider city,” added Dr Hopkins.

The publication was made possible through the generous support of both internal and external partners. Within the University, from the School of Environment, Education and Development and the University of Manchester Library. Additional support was provided by companies that have worked closely on building projects across the campus over the years, including Avison Young, Arcadis, Balfour Beatty, BDP, CBRE, Halliday Meecham Architects, Recom Solutions, Rider Levett Bucknall, and Sheppard Robson.

Building Towards the Bicentenary is available to view for free .

Professor Timothy Devinney elected as a Fellow of the British Academy

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:05:29 +0100

Chair of International Business at Alliance �� Business School Professor Timothy Michael Devinney has been elected as a Fellow of the British Academy, the UK’s leading national body for the humanities and social sciences.

Professor Devinney is an internationally recognised scholar in the fields of business strategy, ethics and corporate responsibility. Over the course of his career, he has explored how organisations make decisions - not only in pursuit of profit, but also in relation to their impact on society and the environment.

His work challenges traditional views of business, focusing on the responsibilities of companies and individuals in a globalised world and the role of leadership in shaping ethical and sustainable practices. Through his research and teaching, he encourages future leaders to think critically about the complex challenges facing organisations today - and how they can contribute to creating more responsible and effective institutions.

His groundbreaking works include the influential book The Myth of the Ethical Consumer, co-authored with Pat Auger and Giana Eckhardt, along with more than 100 articles and a dozen books on topics such as wide ranging as pricing, international business, corporate social responsibility, consumer behaviour and social and political values.

Professor Devinney’s academic career began with studies in Psychology and Applied Mathematics at Carnegie Mellon University, followed by MA, MBA and PhD degrees in Economics and Statistics at the University of Chicago. Before coming to ��, he held positions at institutions around the world including the University of Leeds, the Australian Graduate School of Management, UCLA, Vanderbilt and the University of Chicago.

Professor Devinney joins other ��-based Fellows including Professors James Nazroo, Melanie Giles and Penny Harvey, who have all been elected to the British Academy in recent years reflecting the University’s enduring commitment to cutting-edge scholarship and societal impact.

President of the British Academy Professor Susan J. Smith said: “One of my first acts as incoming President is to welcome this year’s newly elected Fellows, who represent the very best of the humanities and social sciences. They bring years of experience, evidence-based arguments and innovative thinking to the profound challenges of our age.”

“Every new Fellow enlarges our capacity to interpret the past, understand the present, and shape resilient, sustainable futures. It is a privilege to extend my warmest congratulations to them all.”

Remembering Lord David Alliance CBE

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 10:06:43 +0100

It is with great sadness that we have learned about the passing of Lord David Alliance CBE.

Our thoughts and condolences are with Lord Alliance’s wife Homa, his children Graham, Sara and Joshua, and all of his family and friends.

The renaming of Manchester Business School to Alliance �� Business School in 2015 stands as a testament to Lord Alliance’s transformative impact and support for �� and its students over many years.

Lord Alliance’s belief in the power of philanthropy, education and research to drive positive change inspired generations of students, staff, alumni and partners.

His commitment extended far beyond business, encompassing vital support for �� Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST) prior to the merger in 2004, law, our cultural institutions, and pioneering international research across life sciences and medical and human sciences.

Lord Alliance was made an Honorary Fellow of UMIST in 1988 and received an Honorary LLD from the Victoria University of Manchester in 1989. He was also made an Honorary Doctor of Law by �� in 2016.

Professor Ken McPhail, Head of Alliance �� Business School said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Lord David Alliance. His extraordinary generosity and support have shaped our School and left an enduring legacy across the University.

Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of Manchester also commented: “Lord Alliance was a close friend to the University and a remarkable figure whose contributions extended far beyond it. His belief in the transformative power of education created opportunities for generations of students, while his leadership and philanthropy shaped the Alliance �� Business School and the wider �� region. His story will remain a source of inspiration for years to come, and his legacy will endure in the lives he touched and the institutions he helped to build.”

Meet the SEED Change-makers: how students are driving social impact at ��

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 13:33:51 +0100

What happens when students are given the space, support, and encouragement to take action on the issues they care most about?

At ��’s School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED), the answer is: they thrive as Change-makers.

The SEED Change-makers programme is a growing student-led initiative that’s empowering undergraduates and postgraduates to create meaningful change — within the University, in the community, and around the world. Launched two years ago, the programme gives students the tools, confidence and platform to turn passion into action while gaining recognition and real-world experience along the way.

And it's just getting started.

From inspiration to action

The idea for SEED Change-makers came from Professor Nicola Banks, SEED’s Director of Social Responsibility, who saw how students in the Global Development Institute (GDI) were contributing to One World Together — a social enterprise born out of her research. Seeing their drive and commitment, she asked a powerful question:

"What if we stopped thinking of students only as future changemakers — and started supporting them to be changemakers today?"

The programme that followed invites students from across SEED’s five departments — Architecture, Geography, Global Development, Education, and Planning and Environmental Management — to lead, collaborate and innovate on social responsibility projects that matter to them.

What do SEED Change-makers do?

Over its first two years, the programme has engaged over 150 SEED students through Social Responsibility World Cafés and Change-maker working groups — spaces for collaborative discussion, reflection, and action on social and environmental issues.

These student-led events and conversations have reached over 600 attendees in person, with further impact through recorded content that continues to be shared across online platforms and teaching contexts, extending their influence beyond the University and across time zones.

From inspiring peers to informing future students and being used as real-world teaching tools, the Change-maker programme is helping amplify student voices and embed social responsibility more deeply into the culture of SEED.

Recognised impact

SEED Change-makers is formally accredited through the University’s , meaning students who take part have their contributions recognised on their Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR), an official transcript that adds value to graduate job and study applications.

Student-led events

Students have organised impactful lectures, workshops, and campaigns, including:

A conversation with , author of Citizens, on what it means to be an engaged, empowered citizen (November 2023) Watch:
A celebration of 30 years of Fairtrade, with panel guests from academia, co-operatives, and the UK Fairtrade movement. Watch: ’ (October 2024)
A talk by Anshu Gupta, founder of Indian social enterprise Goonj, on rethinking charity and sustainable community support (November 2024) Read:

Working groups creating change

Students have led dedicated groups tackling real-world challenges:

Sustainability at move-out: Addressing waste left behind in student accommodation by helping students donate, recycle and rethink their move-out habits as part of the campaign.
Supporting social enterprise: A team of GDI students co-organised a major fundraising event for , raising over £1,700 to support marginalised communities globally.

Student voices, real impact

Beyond the events and projects, the real story of SEED Change-makers is the personal growth it inspires.

Students describe gaining leadership skills, confidence, new networks, and a deeper connection to their studies and their values. They’re discovering their ability to lead social change, not in the distant future, but right now.

Here’s how Laura Acosta Varon, one of our student leaders, put it:

“It makes me very proud to represent my home and country, Colombia. I’m so excited for the future of One World Together — and here’s to many more years of impact, trust, solidarity, and collaboration!”

Looking ahead: building a bigger movement

As the programme moves into its third year, SEED is investing in a more structured, sustainable model co-designed with students.

Two undergraduates, Saniyyah Ali and Haojun Shuai, are spending the summer of 2025 researching what social responsibility means to their peers and helping to shape a new student handbook. From 2025/26, students will be supported through a semester-based journey of discovery, collaboration, and project delivery, with more ways to get involved at every stage of the student experience.

Get Involved

Students: Interested in becoming a SEED Change-maker? You can find more information on your SEED Students Community Pages
Staff: Want to support or collaborate with SEED Change-makers? Reach out to your departmental social responsibility representative to find out how you can get involved.
Supporters: Want to help us grow the programme? We welcome partnerships, mentoring, and funding opportunities that enable student-led impact. Please contact sr.seed@manchester.ac.uk

Northern Heart, Global Reach: Highlighting ��'s humanitarian impact

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 14:02:34 +0100

Hosted at the University of Manchester’s Samuel Alexander Building, the event brought together Mines Advisory Group (MAG), Action for Humanity, Hope for Justice, the Omega Research Foundation, UK-Med, and the University’s Humanitarian and Conflict Response Institute, alongside diplomats, academics, and leaders from across sectors.

It offered a platform to highlight the collective reach of Manchester’s humanitarian sector, which has supported more than 6.5 million people in the past year alone through landmine clearance, emergency medical aid, disaster preparedness, peacebuilding, and more.

Opening the evening, MAG CEO Darren Cormack reflected on ��’s unique role in global humanitarianism:

The evening included powerful speeches from the University’s President and Vice Chancellor, the CEO of Action for Humanity, and MAG’s Nika Kokareva, demining team leader in Ukraine. Nika delivered a first-hand account of the situation on the ground and the scale of humanitarian need caused by the ongoing war, particularly the threat posed by landmines and unexploded ordnance to families and farmers.

The event served as a timely reminder of Manchester’s deep-rooted legacy of social justice and global solidarity. While MAG and its partners operate in diverse contexts and specialise in different areas, the values driving their missions – dignity, justice, and hope – are shaped by the spirit of this city.

In a world facing increasing humanitarian challenges, the need for sustained partnership, collaboration, and funding has never been greater.

The Global �� event demonstrated what is possible when organisations, institutions, and communities come together in common cause – and why continued, united action is vital to creating a safer, fairer world.

Queer British-Asian Art History

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 13:03:29 +0100

On Thursday 24 July, (Lecturer of modern and contemporary British Art) will join Prof. Dominic Johnson and IMMA curator Seán Kissane to trace the key moments and thematic strands that define Hamad Butt’s work – a practice defying categorisation, weaving together a constellation of references from popular culture, alchemy, and science fiction, to intimacy, risk, and sex and desire.

Hamad Butt: Apprehensions at the Whitechapel Gallery, London, is the first major survey of Hamad Butt (b. 1962, Lahore, Pakistan; d. 1994, London, UK). Butt was one of the most innovative artists of his generation. His work spanned intermedia art, science, and alchemy, whilst also referencing his Queer and diasporic experiences. He offered a nuanced artistic response to the AIDS crisis in the UK, taking a conceptual rather than activist approach.

Alice Correia contributed an essay titled “Problem Spaces: Hamad Butt, South Asian Identities, and British Art” to the catalogue published to accompany the exhibition.

Alice Correia’s talk will be held on Thursday 24 July, 6.30-8pm, at the Whitechapel Gallery, London. Tickets can be booked via the.

In praise of Hamad Butt: Apprehensions at the Whitechapel Gallery:

★★★★★&�Բ��;‘Beauty and violence from a lost and dangerous YBA’
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★★★★★&�Բ��;‘This late genius puts you a breath away from death’
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★★★★★‘cool, calm and potentially lethal’
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