Gayle Dillon

Gayle Dillon is a Principal Lecturer in Psychology at Nottingham Trent University's School of Social Sciences and serves as Deputy Head of Department. She teaches on undergraduate and postgraduate psychology programs and focuses on developmental and forensic psychology, particularly addressing needs of vulnerable populations in educational and custodial settings.

She holds a PhD (2008) exploring imagination in children with autism. Her research investigates autism spectrum disorders, prison experiences of neurodivergent individuals, and educational technologies for special needs learners. She has collaborated with HMP Whatton, HMP Stafford, and schools in Nottingham/Derby on impactful projects.

Recent work emphasizes forensic contexts (e.g., rehabilitating autistic offenders) and educational policy (e.g., Tech4Schools Scheme evaluation). Her mixed-methods approach addresses behavioral interventions, reentry programs, and institutional challenges. Collaborations include the Department for Education and Skills, informing national policies on education and custody.