A leading health and social care researcher known for tackling injustices in the way people with learning disabilities are treated has been named a National Institute for Health and Social Care (NIHR) Senior Investigator, one of the highest honours for leaders in the field.
Sara Ryan, Professor of Social Care at Manchester Met, whose research helps to improve the lives of people with learning disabilities, joins a cohort of the most outstanding and influential researchers shaping UK health and care research in the UK.
A prominent figure in health and social care research, Prof Ryan’s studies on how to support people with learning disabilities has helped to shape government policy, including her NIHR report on how those aged over 40 can be better supported to become more independent and fulfil their aspirations.
Gaining prominence after the preventable death of her son Connor while in NHS care 13 years ago, Prof Ryan’s nationwide campaign, successful legal case and subsequent research has led to a start to changes in the way people with learning disabilities are treated and cared for.
The events and her work inspired a highly acclaimed West End play, Laughing Boy, which was based on Connor’s life, the aftermath of his untimely death, and his ongoing legacy.
With a portfolio of NIHR-funded projects focusing on learning disabilities, autism, growing older and loneliness, Prof Ryan has also published a powerful book exposing the continuing systemic neglect of people with learning disabilities.
Commenting on her Senior Investigator recognition, Prof Ryan said: “This is an unexpected award which recognises my research and leadership in the area of learning disabilities, autism and social injustices.
“I will use the NIHR support to ensure our research is co-produced, reaches relevant audiences in accessible ways, and has a strong strand of activism.”
Professor Lucy Chappell, Chief Executive Officer of the NIHR and Chief Scientific Adviser at the Department of Health and Social Care, added: “By recognising leaders across the breadth of health and care, we are reinforcing NIHR’s commitment to supporting excellence wherever it is found and ensuring that research leadership mirrors the communities and professions it serves.
“Senior Investigators make a significant impact to the NIHR and the wider research landscape and I look forward to seeing the contributions and impact they make across health and care research.”
Prof Ryan’s NIHR recognition follows that of Chris Hatton, another Manchester Met Professor of Social Care, who was awarded the same honour last year for his work in health and social care, which is also helping to improve life for people with learning disabilities.
