Steven Coleman

Steven Coleman is a postdoctoral researcher within the Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, with a distinctive interdisciplinary background that bridges creative practice and applied health research. Originally trained in textile design and digital production, Steven produced work for major UK retailers and contributed to film and media projects before transitioning into academia.

His academic journey began with a Master’s degree exploring creativity and child development theory, culminating in a PhD in Art & Design from Cardiff Metropolitan University. His doctoral research, Ludic Activities: Creative Strategies to Support Subjective Wellbeing in Long-Term Dementia Care Units, successfully employed design-led methods to overcome limitations of traditional research methods and elicit tacit knowledge and reflective practice among care staff.

Steven’s research interests centre on qualitative methodologies that incorporate creative methods and storytelling to access hard-to-reach perspectives. He has contributed to a range of health and social care projects, including: digital inclusion and media habits of youths; benefits of equine therapy for young people not in education, employment or training; care staff supporting people in long term dementia care units; care managers of services for people with learning disabilities during COVID-19;

His work consistently aims to translate complex lived experiences into actionable insights for policy and practice. Currently, Steven is focused on developing his expertise in applied qualitative research and realist evaluation methods, with the goal of becoming an independent researcher contributing to evidence-based improvements in health and social care.