About

Dr Jade Thomson is a researcher at Edge Hill University, working within the Evaluation and Policy Analysis Unit. Her research focuses on programme evaluation, policy analysis, and qualitative research methodologies, with a particular interest in health and social care interventions. She is currently involved in the evaluation of two major projects:

• The Kentown Project – a three-year initiative aimed at improving nursing, respite, and social care for children with life-limiting conditions in Lancashire and South Cumbria. The evaluation examines both the process and impact of the programme, assessing its effectiveness in supporting families and service providers.
• The Barnardo’s Project – an evaluation of a Barnardo’s initiative, investigating its impact on vulnerable communities and assessing how its services can be adapted or expanded to meet long-term needs.

Her work supports organisations in refining their programmes, demonstrating impact, and shaping future policy.

Teaching and Academic Contributions

Jade is also a lecturer at Liverpool Media Academy, where she teaches undergraduate modules in drama and acting. Her teaching is informed by her research expertise in feminist theory, theatre studies, and higher education policy. She is particularly interested in how performance and literature intersect with issues of power, representation, and institutional structures.

PhD Research

Jade’s PhD explores sexual violence in university drama departments, critically examining institutional responses, safeguarding practices, and student experiences. Her research interrogates the structures that shape reporting, prevention, and policy within performing arts education, contributing to broader conversations around student welfare and institutional accountability. By combining policy analysis with qualitative research, her work sheds light on the complexities of safeguarding in creative disciplines and the need for institutional change in higher education.

Creative Background

Coming from a creative background, Jade has extensive experience in theatre, literature, and arts education. Before moving into academia and research, she was actively involved in performance and creative writing, which continues to influence her approach to both teaching and qualitative research. This interdisciplinary perspective allows her to integrate artistic practice with critical inquiry, fostering dynamic learning environments that encourage experimentation, collaboration, and critical engagement.