• Engaging with UK Chinese communities about dementia

      LIM, Jennifer NW; Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, UK (Hawker Publications Ltd., 2023-10-01)
      Talking about “brain health” rather than “cognitive deterioration” may be a better way to initiate conversations about dementia in communities where the terms used to describe dementia are highly stigmatising. Jennifer Lim describes how she implemented the Chinese Think Brain Health Project to increase understanding of dementia and brain health among Chinese communities in the UK.
    • Investigation and causes of spontaneous (non-diabetic) hypoglycaemia in adults: pitfalls to avoid

      Elghobashy, Maiar; Gama, Rousseau; Ainuddin Sulaiman, Raashda; School of Medicine and Clinical Practice, Wolverhampton University, Wolverhampton WV1 1LY, UK; Clinical Chemistry, Black Country Pathology Services, Royal Wolverhampton Trust, Wolverhampton WV10 0QP, UK. (MDPI AG, 2023-10-22)
      Although adult spontaneous (non-diabetic) hypoglycaemia is rare, its recognition is important for the preventative or curative treatment of the underlying cause. Establishing Whipple’s triad—low blood glucose, neuroglycopaenia and resolution of neuroglycopaenia on increasing blood glucose levels to normal or above—is essential to verify hypoglycaemia. Awareness that hypoglycaemia may occur in severely ill patients is important for its prevention. Further investigation in such cases is unnecessary unless another cause of hypoglycaemia is suspected. Patients are often asymptomatic and normoglycaemic at review. Their history of medication, self-medication, access to hypoglycaemic drugs, alcohol use and comorbidity may provide aetiological clues. The investigation involves obtaining blood samples during symptoms for laboratory glucose measurement or provoking fasting or postprandial hypoglycaemia as directed by symptoms. If confirmed, insulin, c-peptide, proinsulin and beta-hydroxybutyrate are analysed in hypoglycaemic samples. These will classify hypoglycaemia due to non-ketotic hyperinsulinaemia, non-ketotic hypoinsulinaemia and ketotic hypoinsulinaemia, and direct investigations to identify the underlying cause. There are, however, many pitfalls that may mislabel healthy individuals as “hypoglycaemic” or misdiagnose treatable or preventable causes of spontaneous hypoglycaemia. Clinical acumen and appropriate investigations will mostly identify hypoglycaemia and its cause.
    • Innovation from necessity: digital technologies, teacher development and reciprocity with organisational innovation

      Scott, Howard; Smith, Matt (Taylor & Francis, 2024-01-21)
      This paper outlines how digital technologies support innovation in teaching and learning the English language across Palestinian Higher Education Institutes. A European project collaborated to build staff capacity in knowledge and skills, shown here through the redesign of curricula, pedagogical training, the design and implementation of interactive textbooks, the creation of language labs, helping to develop expertise in creating and utilising Open Educational Resources (OER) and significantly, the development of individual agency as a form of OER. In this paper, we draw on three years of data to present a model for teacher innovation showing how digital innovation is firstly personal at a practitioner level and shaped by need, before becoming driven by collaboration at an organisational level with like-minded colleagues. Shared practice at this level can lead to community discourse through practitioner networks, which in turn can lead to dialogue initiating instances of organisational change. This resonates with literature which shows innovation has three outcomes: originality (practitioner-based agency); scale (going beyond the site of creation) and value (how this produces benefits for others). We perceive that the resulting capacity-building extends beyond the redesign of curricula mentioned to professional enrichment, collegiality through cascading innovation to other areas, and enhanced practitioner agency.
    • “Our identity is our dignity”: digital transformations: Palestinian aspirations, idealism, reality and pragmatism

      Scott, Howard; Ujvari, Montaser Motia; Smith, Matt (UNISA Press, 2024-03-15)
      This article reports on a collaborative project for the digital innovation of language teaching in Palestine, and it argues for the necessity of mobile learning to circumvent disruption created by the Israeli occupation causing challenges that result in marginalisation and disenfranchisement of opportunity. This partly occurs through the oppression of a sovereign curriculum that supports Palestinian self-determination. This oppression is against both the United Nations Development Goals protected rights for education and the Palestinian Ministry’s vision for a society with an education sector that embraces the use of technology to invigorate the value of its culture, produce knowledge and promote emancipation. The article proposes the integration of digital technologies with student-centred learning to enhance and support transformation through three main elements: 1. Digital competence to develop confidence and agency in teachers; 2. Continuous teacher learning to develop autonomy and collaboration within organisations; 3. Problem-solving competencies, which can result in continuous improvement loops and local solutions to barriers. This article will resonate with those recognising the need for critical theory to challenge policy and practice where it deepens disadvantage. It draws upon the voices of 20 teachers from four higher education institutions in Palestine, who reflect on the barriers to innovation and a reclaiming of educational terrain.
    • Effectiveness of the Walking in ScHools (WISH) Study, a peer-led walking intervention for adolescent girls: results of a cluster randomised controlled trial

      Murphy, Marie H.; O'Kane, S. Maria; Carlin, Angela; Lahart, Ian; Doherty, Leanne C.; Jago, Russell; McDermott, Gary; Faulkner, Maria; Gallagher, Alison M.; Centre for Exercise Medicine, Physical Activity and Health, Sports and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, BT15 1ED, UK. (BMC, 2024-02-19)
      Background: Most adolescent girls fail to meet current physical activity guidelines. Physical activity behaviours track from childhood into adulthood and providing adolescent girls with opportunities to be physically active may have health benefits beyond childhood. The effects of walking interventions on adult cardiometabolic health are known, however less is understood about the potential of walking to promote physical activity in adolescents. Following the Walking In ScHools (WISH) feasibility study, this definitive trial aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel, low-cost, school-based walking intervention at increasing physical activity levels of adolescent girls (aged 12–14 years). Methods: Female pupils were recruited from eighteen schools across the border region of Ireland and in Northern Ireland. In intervention schools (n = 9), girls aged 15–18 years, were trained as walk leaders, and led the younger pupils in 10–15 min walks before school, at break and lunch recess. All walks took place in school grounds and pupils were encouraged to participate in as many walks as possible each week. The primary outcome measure was accelerometer determined total physical activity (counts per minutes, cpm). Results: In total, 589 pupils were recruited to the study. At baseline, pupils engaged in a median (interquartile range (IQR)) 35.7 (21.2) mins moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) per day and only 12% (n = 66) of participants met physical activity guidelines (60 min MVPA per day). The intervention was delivered for a mean (standard deviation (SD)) 19.9 ± 0.97 weeks. The mean post-intervention total physical activity for the intervention group was 676 cpm and 710 cpm in the control group. Post-intervention total physical activity did not statistically differ between groups when adjusted for age, body mass index z-scores and baseline physical activity (mean difference, -33.5, 95% CI = -21.2 to 88.1; p = 0.213). Conclusions: ‘Scaling-up’ physical activity interventions is challenging and despite a promising feasibility study, the results of this fully powered trial suggest that in this context, the WISH intervention did not increase device measured physical activity. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, school environments have changed and although pupils enjoyed the programme, attendance at walks was low, indicating that there is a need to better understand how to implement interventions within schools. Trial registration: ISRCTN; ISRCTN12847782; Registered 2nd July 2019.
    • Harnessing photosynthetic microorganisms for enhanced bioremediation of microplastics: A comprehensive review

      Barone, Giovanni Davide; Rodríguez-Seijo, Andrés; Parati, Mattia; Johnston, Brian; Erdem, Elif; Cernava, Tomislav; Zhu, Zhi; Liu, Xufeng; Axmann, Ilka M; Lindblad, Peter; et al. (Elsevier, 2024-03-20)
      Mismanaged plastics, upon entering the environment, undergo degradation through physicochemical and/or biological processes. This process often results in the formation of microplastics (MPs), the most prevalent form of plastic debris (<1 mm). MPs pose severe threats to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, necessitating innovative strategies for effective remediation. Some photosynthetic microorganisms can degrade MPs but there lacks a comprehensive review. Here we examine the specific role of photoautotrophic microorganisms in water and soil environments for the biodegradation of plastics, focussing on their unique ability to grow persistently on diverse polymers under sunlight. Notably, these cells utilise light and CO2 to produce valuable compounds such as carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, showcasing their multifaceted environmental benefits. We address key scientific questions surrounding the utilisation of photosynthetic microorganisms for MPs and nanoplastics (NPs) bioremediation, discussing potential engineering strategies for enhanced efficacy. Our review highlights the significance of alternative biomaterials and the exploration of strains expressing enzymes, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) hydrolases, in conjunction with microalgal and/or cyanobacterial metabolisms. Furthermore, we delve into the promising potential of photo-biocatalytic approaches, emphasising the coupling of plastic debris degradation with sunlight exposure. The integration of microalgal-bacterial consortia is explored for biotechnological applications against MPs and NPs pollution, showcasing the synergistic effects in wastewater treatment through the absorption of nitrogen, heavy metals, phosphorous, and carbon. In conclusion, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on the use of photoautotrophic cells for plastic bioremediation. It underscores the need for continued investigation into the engineering of these microorganisms and the development of innovative approaches to tackle the global issue of plastic pollution in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
    • Age-specific reference intervals of Abbott Intact PTH-potential impacts on clinical care

      Kalaria, Tejas; Lawson, Alexander J; Duffy, Joanne; Agravatt, Ashishkumar; Harris, Steve; Ford, Clare; Gama, Rousseau; Webster, Craig; Geberhiwot, Tarekegn; School of Medicine and Clinical Practice, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, WV1 1LY, UK; et al. (The Endocrine Society, 2024-01-12)
      Background: PTH assays are not standardized; therefore, method-specific PTH reference intervals are required for interpretation of results. PTH increases with age in adults but age-related reference intervals for the Abbott intact PTH (iPTH) assay are not available. Methods: Deidentified serum PTH results from September 2015 to November 2022 were retrieved from the laboratory information system of a laboratory serving a cosmopolitan population in central-west England for individuals aged 18 years and older if the estimated glomerular filtration rate was ≥60 mL/min, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D was >50 nmol/L, and serum albumin-adjusted calcium and serum phosphate were within reference intervals. Age-specific reference intervals for Abbott iPTH were derived by an indirect method using the refineR algorithm. Results: PTH increased with age and correlated with age when controlled for 25-hydroxyvitamin D, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and adjusted calcium (r = 0.093, P < .001). The iPTH age-specific reference intervals for 4 age partitions of 18 to 45 years, 46 to 60 years, 61 to 80 years, and 81 to 95 years were 1.6 to 8.6 pmol/L, 1.8 to 9.5 pmol/L, 2.0 to 11.3 pmol/L, and 2.3 to 12.3 pmol/L, respectively. PTH was higher in women compared with men (P < .001). Sex-specific age-related reference intervals could not be derived because of the limited sample size. Conclusion: Age-specific Abbott iPTH reference intervals were derived. Application of age-specific reference intervals will impact the diagnosis and management of normocalcemic hyperparathyroidism, based on current definitions, and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Additional studies are required to clarify the effect of sex and ethnicity on PTH.
    • Retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) circulating levels and gestational diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis

      Leca, Bianca M.; Kite, Chris; Lagojda, Lukasz; Davasgaium, Allan; Dallaway, Alexander; Chatha, Kamaljit Kaur; Randeva, Harpal S.; Kyrou, Ioannis (Frontiers Media, 2024-03-12)
      Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a prevalent condition where diabetes is diagnosed during pregnancy, affecting both maternal and fetal outcomes. Retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) is a circulating adipokine which belongs to the lipocalin family and acts as a specific carrier protein that delivers retinol (vitamin A) from the liver to the peripheral tissues. Growing data indicate that circulating RBP4 levels may positively correlate with GDM. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the potential relationship between circulating RBP4 levels and GDM when measured at various stages of pregnancy. Methods: MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMCARE, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched to identify studies comparing pregnant women with and without GDM, whose circulating RBP4 levels were measured in at least one pregnancy trimester. Findings were reported using standardized mean difference (SMD) and random-effects models were used to account for variability among studies. Furthermore, the risk of bias was assessed using the RoBANS tool. Results: Out of the 34 studies identified, 32 were included in the meta-analysis (seven with circulating RBP4 levels measured in the first trimester, 19 at 24–28 weeks, and 14 at >28 weeks of pregnancy). RBP4 levels were statistically higher in the GDM group than in controls when measured during all these pregnancy stages, with the noted RBP4 SMD being 0.322 in the first trimester (95% CI: 0.126–0.517; p < 0.001; 946 GDM cases vs. 1701 non-GDM controls); 0.628 at 24–28 weeks of gestation (95% CI: 0.290–0.966; p < 0.001; 1776 GDM cases vs. 1942 controls); and 0.875 at >28 weeks of gestation (95% CI: 0.252–1.498; p = 0.006; 870 GDM cases vs. 1942 non-GDM controls). Significant study heterogeneity was noted for all three pregnancy timepoints. Conclusion: The present findings indicate consistently higher circulating RBP4 levels in GDM cases compared to non-GDM controls, suggesting the potential relevance of RBP4 as a biomarker for GDM. However, the documented substantial study heterogeneity, alongside imprecision in effect estimates, underscores the need for further research and standardization of measurement methods to elucidate whether RBP4 can be utilized in clinical practice as a potential GDM biomarker. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO (CRD42022340097: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022340097).
    • Translation, cross-cultural adaptation, reliability and validity of the Portuguese version of the ‘Fit to Dance?’ survey

      Panosso, Isabela; Picon, Andreja; Figueiredo, Valeria; Gomes, Vitória; Sanchez, Erin; Wyon, Matthew; Haas, Aline Nogueira; Bittar, Adriano (Elsevier, 2024-12-31)
      Background: The ‘Fit to Dance?’ survey has been used in a number of studies to understand the health and wellbeing of dancers. These data have not been collected in Brazil as there is no validated questionnaire available in Brazilian Portuguese, culturally validated in Brazil with a scope as broad and comprehensive as that of ‘Fit to Dance?’. Objective: Translate into Brazilian Portuguese and culturally validate the questionnaire ‘Fit to Dance?’ in Brazil. Methods: This was a validity and reliability study of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the ‘Fit to Dance?’ Survey. The stages of the research were: translation into the target language (Brazilian Portuguese), translation synthesis, translation validation and cross-cultural adaptation by a committee of experts in Dance Medicine and Science (DMS), reverse translation into English, pilot study (test/retest), and final version of the questionnaire. Results: The questionnaire was applied to 21 dancers of different dance genres, with an age average of 25 ± 7.0 years. Cronbach's alpha (0.705), ICC (0.984) and Kappa (0.794) results reached adequate values. Conclusion: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the questionnaire ‘Fit to Dance?’ is effective, has adequate levels of validity and reliability, and can be used to report injuries and aspects of health and well-being of Brazilian dancers.
    • The opportunities, challenges, and rewards of "community peer research": reflections on research practice

      Rees, James; Caulfield, Laura; Booth, Jane; Kanjilal, Mahuya; Sojka, Bozena; Spicksley, Kathryn; Blamire, Joshua; Arnull, Elaine (SAGE, 2024-03-18)
      This article shares reflections from a group of academic researchers at the same University on their experience of conducting “community peer research” projects involving nonacademics in social research. We review a range of literature that has influenced the development of our practice, stressing the importance of co-production and power relations. We present six case studies that represent the breadth of our different engagements with community peer research, and then go on to reflect on the challenges and benefits of this approach. We identify a number of practical challenges, ways in which we overcame them, and in particular stress the importance of providing well-designed training for community peer researchers. We conclude with some recommendations for other researchers looking to conduct similar research.
    • Safer Street 4: Violence against women and girls and the night-time economy in Telford and Wrekin

      Arnull, Elaine; Kanjilal, Mahuya; Khasteganan, Nazanin (University of Wolverhampton, 2024-03-13)
    • Sibling and peer bullying victimization in adolescence: Masculinity, femininity, and the moderating role of sex and popularity

      Gaunt, Lily; Guy, Alexa; Wolke, Dieter; Lee, Kirsty (Wiley, 2024-01-30)
      Introduction We investigated whether gender-typed traits (masculinity and femininity) contemporaneously predicted self-reported peer victimization, peer-reported peer victimization, and sibling victimization. We also tested the moderating role of sex and popularity. Methods A sample of 2782 British pupils aged 11–16 from Central England, UK was screened for bullying involvement and popularity using self-report and peer nominations, and a subsample of 704 (52.7% girls) completed a measure of gender-typed traits (masculinity and femininity). Results Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that low levels of masculine traits were associated with greater risk of self-reported peer victimization, there were no associations with peer-reported peer victimization, and low levels of feminine traits were associated with greater risk of self-reported sibling victimization. The effects were not moderated by sex, while popularity decreased the risk of self- and peer-reported peer victimization. Conclusions Bullying prevention interventions could benefit from including the positive facets of feminine and masculine traits.
    • The effects of dance interventions on physical function and quality of life among middle-aged and older adults: A systematic review

      Lu, Jingting; Abd Rahman, Nur Athirah; Wyon, Matthew; Shaharudin, Shazlin (Public Library of Science, 2024-12-31)
      Background: Fundamental physical functions such as postural control and balance are vital in preserving everyday life, affecting an individual’s quality of life. Dance is a physical activity that offers health advantages across various life stages. Nevertheless, the effects of dance interventions on physical function, postural control, and quality of life among older adults have remained underexplored. The review aimed to examine the strength of evidence for dance interventions on physical function and quality of life among middle-aged and older adults. Methods: A systematic review was conducted across four databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Medline), focusing on studies involving more than four weeks of dance interventions. MeSH terms [dance or dance intervention or dance rehabilitation or dance movement] and [motor function or functional capacity or postural control or functional mobility or mobility or postural balance or balance or flexibility or gait] and [well-being or quality of life or life satisfaction] were utilized in the search. This review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42023422857). Included studies were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias. Results: The search revealed 885 studies, and 16 met the inclusion criteria. The effects of various dance genres on physical functions and quality of life were compared. Most studies showed that dance intervention improved physical function, balance, postural control and quality of life. Dance intervention showed a high level of adherence compared to physiotherapy, self-care, conventional therapy, and aerobic and resistance exercise. Conclusion: In terms of improving physical function and quality of life, structured dance is a secure and relatively effective alternative to exercise. Note the effect of movement selection and intensity in the dance interventions. Dance with music may increase participants’ interest, encouraging more physical activity among middle-aged and older adults.
    • Conspiracy theory beliefs in the adolescent population: A systematic review

      Byrne, Anthony; Martin, David; Jones, Claire; Galbraith, Niall; Mercer, Tom (Wiley, 2024-03-13)
      Introduction While the study of conspiracy theory beliefs is a relatively new research area, there has been a rise in academic interest in recent years. The literature provides evidence of relationships between conspiracy theory beliefs and a range of factors, but the vast majority of studies are limited to adult samples, and it is unclear how such beliefs present in adolescence. Methods The systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA-S format. Relevant databases were searched up to February 23, 2023, for quantitative studies related to adolescent conspiracy theory beliefs. Results The six included articles show that conspiracy theory beliefs are present from the start of adolescence, and stable from age 14 upwards, with correlations reported for mistrust and paranoid thinking. Negative relationships were reported for cognitive factors such as ontological confusion, cognitive ability, and actively open-minded thinking. Health-related beliefs correlated with adverse childhood experiences, peer problems, conduct, and sociodemographic factors. Right-wing authoritarianism and anxiety positively correlated with intergroup conspiracy theory beliefs. Conclusion While some factors from adult studies are replicated in the review, there are differences between age groups. The age at which conspiracy theory beliefs begin to form indicate developmental aspects of adolescence, and possibly childhood, that require further examination. Cognitive factors show promise for interventions and should be explored further. However, the lack of studies using adolescent populations is an issue that must be resolved for a greater understanding of conspiracy theory beliefs and a move toward effective interventions.
    • Housing support services and the strengths-based approach: service-user and staff perspectives

      Sochos, Antigonos; Smith, Sue (Taylor & Francis, 2023-12-22)
      This study aimed to identify main themes in the accounts of individuals encountering homelessness and staff who supported them, in a low-income South-East England town. It explored whether such themes were compatible with the adoption of a strengths-based approach by the local homelessness services. Thirty-one individuals in temporary accommodation and 19 staff were interviewed using a semi-structured schedule. Thematic analysis of the service user accounts identified five themes—Challenging Backgrounds, Effective Provision, Room for Improvement, Strengths, and Aspirations. An equal number of themes emerged from the thematic analysis of the staff interviews—Focus on Trauma and Mental Health, Service User Variability, Service User Involvement, Hard-Working Staff, and Improving Material Conditions. Both sets of narratives supported the adoption of a strengths-based approach by the local services, as they emphasized service user competencies, the importance of co-production, and the necessity to consider context in understanding the experience of homelessness. Including a range of stakeholders, future research needs to follow-up these services after they fully adopt a strengths-based approach.
    • Triggers, content, and enforcement: directors’ duties to creditors – where are we after Sequana?

      Walton, Peter (University of Wolverhampton, 2024-12-31)
      Despite their codification by the Companies Act 2006, there remain several unresolved issues in relation to directors’ duties, in particular, how those duties operate when a company becomes insolvent or where its insolvency is imminent. In 2022, the Supreme Court in BTI 2014 LLC v Sequana SA provided much needed clarity in this area but some questions remain unanswered. This article looks at the Supreme Court’s decision in order to assess when the directors’ duty owed to their company shifts from a duty to act in the best interests of the company’s members to one where the interests of the company’s creditors are paramount or at minimum must be considered alongside the interests of the members. The nature of this ‘creditors’ duty’ will be considered, along with what triggers it and who, if anyone, can enforce it. Although limited to the duty under section172 of the Companies Act 2006, the Sequana case appears to open up the creditors’ duty to all of the directors’ codified duties. The Sequana decision also points out the similarities between the creditors’ duty and the insolvency office-holder actions available under sections 214 and 239 of the Insolvency Act 1986. It is argued here that it may be time to consider opening up the opportunity for creditors to bring a derivative action on behalf of the company for breach of the creditors’ duty.
    • The Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) and the Niger Delta: analysing the role of local communities in the programme between 1999 and 2017

      Kassimeris, George; O'Kane, Eamonn; Cunningham, Michael; Nnanta Amadi, Anele; School of Humanities, Faculty of Arts, Business and Social Sciences (University of Wolverhampton, 2023-11)
      This thesis examines the role of local agencies in peacebuilding initiatives within resource-rich conflict regions, focusing on the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) in Nigeria's Niger Delta. The Niger Delta has faced protracted unrest due to tensions between minority ethnic groups, the government, and multinational oil companies (MNOCs) operating in the area. In 2009, the government implemented the PAP centred on the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) of militants. However, the emergence of new militant groups suggests the Programme failed to achieve durable peace. This study aims to analyse how the PAP's conceptual foundations align with local needs and desires. It also investigates the level of participation of local stakeholders like youth, communities, and civil society organisations in PAP's design and delivery. Additionally, the research explores more inclusive and hybrid approaches to peacebuilding tailored to the Delta context. An embedded multiple case study methodology is utilised to examine perspectives from various local actors. Semi-structured interviews provide primary data on community experiences. The study argues that lasting peace depends on reconciling external templates like DDR with indigenous resources and agency. It contributes to scholarship on everyday peacebuilding and localising interventions. For policy, the findings recommend integrating top-down and bottom-up efforts for a hybrid approach resonant with the society being transformed.
    • The impact of servant leadership on job satisfaction within Indian family firms in the UK

      Firth, Janet; Wang, Yong; Singh, Guriqbal; Faculty of Arts, Business and Social Sciences; University of Wolverhampton Business School, Faculty of Arts, Business and Social Sciences (University of Wolverhampton, 2023-08)
      Family businesses, including those owned by ethnic minority groups, are vital to the UK's economy. Indian family firms, for example, contribute significantly to the nation's GDP, providing employment, fostering innovation, and supporting local communities. The importance of servant leadership emphasises the leader's responsibility to serve others and prioritise their well-being and growth. This leadership style has been linked to higher job satisfaction among employees, a crucial factor for the success of small family firms. In family businesses, both family and non-family employees play essential roles. Family employees often profoundly understand the business's values, history, and long-term goals. In contrast, non-family employees bring diverse perspectives and expertise, contributing to the company's adaptability and resilience. Balancing the needs and expectations of both groups is vital for maintaining a harmonious and productive work environment, ultimately leading to the firm's success. Despite growing interest in leadership research within family businesses, there remains a notable gap in the study of ethnic minority businesses, particularly in the United Kingdom. This thesis addresses this gap by focusing on servant leadership and its influence on job satisfaction among family and non-family employees. It also explores the moderating effect of socioemotional wealth (SEW) on this relationship. This study aims to understand the subject matter using a mixed-method research design. The findings suggest that job satisfaction in small family firms differs in terms of its impact on family and non-family employees. This research offers several valuable contributions to understanding servant leadership within UK-based family firms, particularly those of Indian origin. Examining the role of servant leadership in enhancing job satisfaction for family and non-family employees in family businesses, thus shedding light on the potential benefits of adopting this leadership approach within such firms. Investigating the moderating impact of SEW on the relationship between servant leadership and job satisfaction reveals that while SEW positively influences family employees, it harms non-family employees. Expanding the scope of research on Indian family businesses in the UK contributes to the broader knowledge base on ethnic minority enterprises within the country.
    • ‘It’s a bit of a clan really, you either feel part of [it] or you don’t’. Transitioning to university: perceptions of students and staff at a UK university

      Scott, Howard; Hall, Val; Bentley, Jon; School of Education, Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing (University of Wolverhampton, 2022-07)
      Transition to university is considered problematic for students and institutions. This has led to examination of the institutionally controlled elements of transition. Despite intervention, students, and universities in the United Kingdom (UK) still experience transition related issues. This, combined with the shifting landscape of UK higher education, presented an opportunity to explore transition through the lived experiences of students in a more embodied manner, beyond the academic setting. This research has explored the empirical nature of ‘transitioning’ as an emergent and dynamic experience, and considered if this theory is the best explanation. This mixed methods case study, explored the experiences of students at a specialist UK university. Twelve undergraduate students provided photo interview accounts of their experience. Interviews were also conducted with five members of university staff and 241 students contributed through a questionnaire. Despite an ecology system model indicating that students encountered similar transitional experiences, photo elicitation interviews and questionnaire results demonstrated students presented unique and individualised experiences. These findings demonstrated the non-homogenous nature of this student population. A key finding was how friendship and sense of community played an important role in university experience, which was concurrently identified as important by staff. Sense of Community theory highlighted the significant, and often polarised, impact of sociocultural and emotional experiences. This included themes of community and how students perceived themselves to either belong, or be alienated, from both the institutional community and social groups. A further significant finding was the role institutional social culture had in enabling or disabling sense of community, and how this influenced many facets of the students’ overall experience, including mental health. Emotionally, students regularly described university as a ‘rollercoaster’ often situated in the sociocultural setting. Cultural challenges were also evident when students entered the workplace, with female students negotiating barriers due to industrial stereotypes. Findings did not support the view that transition is a universal experience, or the narrative that institutions can effectively manage students’ transition through induction activities. Students provided evidence of continuous, overlapping transitions, demonstrating complex embodied movements. University experience was found to be a uniquely individual phenomenon involving multiple settings: academic, personal, sociocultural and emotional. Findings suggested any of these settings can, at any point, impact experience, acting to enable or disable engagement from the course or community. This research has found empirical evidence to support the theory of transitioning.