In the eighth episode of Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, we meet Elspeth Clark, a doctoral researcher from the University of Southampton. Elspeth’s research explores the relationship between meaningful occupation and a sense of belonging for young people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities.
Drawing on her background as an occupational therapist, Elspeth works collaboratively with students in a special school setting, using sensory and embodied methods to co-construct understanding. Her research challenges the idea that people who don’t use words to communicate can’t meaningfully engage in research, and she makes a strong case for more inclusive and participatory approaches.
Elspeth shares how she builds trusting relationships, how innovative audio-visual tools are amplifying student voices, and how her findings could inform better practices across education, health, and social care. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of recognising agency, promoting belonging, and designing research that centres those who are often left out.
You can read a transcript of the conversation here.
Find out more about the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership at southcoastdtp.ac.uk
This is a Research Podcasts production.
Credits:
Presenter: Catherine McDonald, Research Podcasts
Guest: Elspeth Clark, University of Southampton
Producer: Krissie Brighty-Glover, Research Podcasts
Editor: Anton Jarvis, Research Podcasts
Transcripts: Lauren White, Research Podcasts
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