Prior to joining the team, Donna was a Senior Research Manager at the University of Plymouth’s Social Research Unit, where she led a team of five researchers to deliver complex evaluations and managed a portfolio of commissioned research for national and local partners.
Donna has extensive expertise in mixed-methods research, including participatory and co-produced approaches, and is particularly committed to ensuring that people with lived experience are meaningfully involved in shaping research and influencing change. Her work has focused on supporting people facing multiple disadvantage, including those experiencing poverty, trauma, homelessness, and barriers to employment.
She has led large-scale and long-term evaluations funded by organisations such as the National Lottery Community Fund, Sport England and local authorities, and has worked closely with VCSE partners, commissioners and multi-agency stakeholders to generate practical, actionable insights. Donna is passionate about inclusive, ethical research that promotes people’s rights, improves services, and supports more equitable outcomes.
When she’s not at work, Donna loves exploring the SW coast path and trips to the zoo with her toddler.
