Andrew Orton

Dr Andrew Orton is an Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology at Durham University, with additional roles as Department Representative and Fellow at the Durham Research Methods Centre. He also serves as Director of the William Leech Research Fund and the Centre for Social Justice and Community Action, focusing on Christian social action in the North East of England.

His research explores intersections of faith, dialogue, and diversity in professional practice, particularly examining Christian community work's role in social justice, migrant integration, and financial inclusion. Collaborations with practical theology and transnational networks (e.g., Brazil-UK ecumenical activism) highlight his interdisciplinary approach.

Recent publications analyze faith-based responses to debt, interfaith dialogue frameworks, and intercultural city policies. He contributes to academic discourse through journals like International Journal of Latin American Religions and Community Development Journal, while producing policy guides for the Council of Europe and practical theology institutions.

Andrew supervises PhD students in his research areas and has led modules on Communities and Social Justice. He actively engages in participatory research, institutional capacity-building, and policymaker consultations at local, national, and international levels.