Nicola Gratton

Nicola Gratton is an Associate Professor and Lead for Civic Engagement and Evaluation at Staffordshire University's Research, Innovation and Impact Services department. She oversees the Connected Communities Strategy, coordinating initiatives like the Staffs CAN Community Advisory Network and designing the university's evaluation framework. Her work bridges participatory action research with social justice, focusing on community-driven solutions to poverty and inequality.

Gratton holds an MA in Community Education (De Montfort University), a PG Certificate in Youth and Community Work, and a BSc in Combined Science (Lancaster University). Her career includes roles as Senior Lecturer at the University of Derby and Director of Here and There Consultancy.

Research interests include participatory methods, civic university development, digital inclusion, and arts access for underrepresented groups. She has led projects like Get Talking Hardship and Keep Talking, funded by National Lottery and UKRI. Gratton launched the Civic Fellowship Scheme (2020) and Staffordshire's first Participatory Action Research Programme for staff and students.

Her accolades include Whatuni Student Choice Awards (2023) and recognition in the Times Good University Guide for 'Outstanding' research impact. She contributes to policy through roles like the Reframing the Civic University consortium and sits on multiple advisory groups including the Stoke-on-Trent City of Culture bid team.