Catherine Harris

Catherine Harris is a Research Fellow at the Centre for Regional Economic and Social Research (CRESR), Sheffield Hallam University, with over a decade of experience evaluating programs and interventions for government, nonprofits, and third-sector organizations. She holds a BSc (Hons) and MSc, specializing in mixed-methods research integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches such as surveys, interviews, and statistical analysis.

Her research focuses on vulnerable populations, including children with disabilities, marginalized groups, and older adults, with a particular emphasis on the voluntary and community sector. Key projects include evaluations of Age Better in Sheffield, green social prescribing initiatives, and home improvement services. She has led projects as Principal Investigator and Project Manager, demonstrating expertise in policy impact measurement, outcomes evaluation, and accessible reporting.

Recent work includes national evaluations of social prescribing programs, community business networks, and parks development, reflecting her commitment to addressing social inequities through evidence-based interventions. Her publications span journals like Social Research Practice and Perspectives in Public Health, addressing topics such as loneliness mitigation and the role of literature in disability inclusion.

Ms. Harris collaborates with diverse stakeholders, including the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and ROSA, ensuring her research bridges academic rigor and real-world application.