Claire Cunnington

Dr Claire Cunnington is a Researcher at the University of Sheffield within the School of Sociological Studies, Politics and International Relations. Her work bridges academia, healthcare, and advocacy, focusing on trauma, interpersonal violence, and childhood sexual abuse (CSA) recovery.

• Key Affiliations:
  • Member of Sheffield Interpersonal Violence and Abuse Research (SHiVAR)
  • Associate Fellow of the Sexual Harms and Medical Encounters (SHAME) Project, Birkbeck, University of London
  • Member of the University of Sheffield Healthy Lifespan Institute (HELSI)

Research Interests: Claire specializes in CSA—both historical and contemporary—with a focus on trauma-informed practices, qualitative methodologies (including insider research), and co-production in participatory research. Her work examines how survivors conceptualize recovery and how professionals can better support it, particularly through media like the film Flow, which she co-created with NHS stakeholders and survivors.

Recent Publications highlight her interdisciplinary approach, blending digital tools (e.g., SWOTT toolkit for social work training), film as a research medium, and critical analyses of historical legal frameworks around consent. These works often address barriers to CSA disclosure and trauma-aware interventions.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Wellcome Trust 'Society and Ethics Doctoral Studentship' (2016)
  • Violence, Abuse and Mental Health Network ECR Bursary (2021)
  • University of Sheffield QR Policy Support Fund (2022)
  • University of Sheffield HEIF Funding (2023)

Teaching & Partnerships: While not currently teaching modules, she is available for guest lectures. Her collaborations with NHS England and the Office of Health Improvement and Disparities have produced globally recognized work, including the 20-languages subtitled film Flow, selected by international festivals and used by NGOs and governments for awareness training.