Danielle McIlroy

Danielle McIlroy is a Lecturer at Queen's University Belfast (QUB), affiliated with the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work. She is associated with the Centre for Inclusion, Transformation and Equality (CITE) and the Centre for Technological Innovation, Mental Health and Education (TIME). Her primary role includes teaching and research in social work and related disciplines.

Education: She holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Work from QUB, supervised by Professors Liz Montgomery and Graeme Davidson, focusing on decision-making processes in learning disability services.

Research Interests: Her work centers on learning disabilities, mental health, and mental capacity law, with a focus on decision-making frameworks (substitute, supported, shared) and their alignment with human rights legislation. She explores social inclusion, social justice, and the impact of political conflict on social work practices. Her research also addresses international perspectives on caregiving roles, advocacy, and environmental social work.

Awards:

• Associate Fellowship from the Higher Education Academy (2022)
• Diana Jones Prize (2018)
• International Development Fund (IDF) - IFSW Conference Vienna Award (2019)
• Praxis Care Honorarium (2019)
• QUB Researcher Plus Award (2023)

Teaching: She convenes postgraduate and undergraduate modules, including SWK7001: Specialist Practice Dissertation and SWK1004/2003: Law for Social Workers. She also tutors in undergraduate social work programs.

Professional Engagement: Active in academic networks, she has participated in conferences such as the Approved Social Workers Conference 2024 and the Asian & Pacific Islander Social Work Educators Association (APISWEA). Her work bridges research, policy, and practice in mental health law and disability rights.