About
David Matthews is a Lecturer in Health & Care and Programme Lead for the BA (Hons) Health and Social Care at Bangor University. He is affiliated with the School of Health Sciences and has previously held roles in the School of History, Law and Social Sciences. His academic background includes a PhD in Sociology and Social Policy from Bangor University (2011) and an MA in Social Research and Social Policy (2006), alongside a BA in Sociology (2005). He also holds a Professional Graduate Certificate of Education from the University of South Wales (2017).
David holds a BA in Sociology from Bangor University (2005), followed by an MA in Social Research and Social Policy (2006) and a PhD in Sociology and Social Policy (2011), both from Bangor University. Additionally, he earned a Professional Graduate Certificate of Education from the University of South Wales in 2017.
Matthews’ research focuses on the societal and structural determinants of health, particularly how social class, economic inequality, and material deprivation influence physical and mental well-being. He employs Marxist and neo-Marxist theoretical frameworks, as well as critical psychological approaches, to analyze these issues. His work also explores alternative social structures and organizations that promote holistic well-being. Key areas of interest include the critique of welfare systems under capitalism, the impact of austerity policies, and the intersection of race and disability with welfare state reform.
His recent publications, including books such as The Class Struggle and Welfare: Social Policy under Capitalism (2025) and Moving Beyond the Welfare State of Racial Capitalism (2025), reflect his engagement with systemic critiques of social policy and advocacy for progressive alternatives. He also contributes to nursing education through co-editing A Handbook for Trainee Nursing Associates (2023), which addresses practical and theoretical aspects of mental health care in clinical settings.
Matthews is currently accepting PhD students and has supervised research in areas aligned with his expertise in health inequalities and social policy. He has contributed to editorial boards for journals such as Spectre and Athabasca University Press, furthering academic discourse in his field. While specific grants are not detailed in the provided information, his research aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being.
