Summary of the impact

This case study outlines how research into the frictional behaviour of nuts and bolts (threaded fasteners) has found commercial applications and contributed to the improved safety of transport systems, industrial plant and equipment. A number of significant impacts have developed from a long-term research association between this UoA and the company Bolt Science, based in Chorley, Lancashire. Drawing on UCLan-based research, training materials have been developed by Bolt Science and delivered globally to encourage the safe and correct use of threaded fasteners in the engineering industry. Bolt Science have drawn on research conducted at UClan to inform a major accident investigation by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch as well as solutions to problems in other engineering applications.

Summary of the impact

We have conducted studies to improve the recognition and treatment of post-stroke psychological problems. Our Motivational Interviewing (MI) study was the first, and one of only a few studies to show a positive impact of a talk-based psychological intervention following a stroke. This study has been recognized nationally and internationally and there is evidence that stroke-specific staff are accessing training in MI (e.g. UK Stroke Forum Education and Training, and the National Stroke Foundation in Australia). We are also collaborating in further research to evaluate the use of MI in the adjustment to other illnesses such as HIV, indicating that our work is beginning to have an impact in other areas of healthcare. We have developed national competences to underpin the development of training on the recognition, screening and management of psychological problems and enhancing communication skills. This research has contributed to the National Clinical Guideline for Stroke, National Competences, and improvements in the recognition of psychological distress and timely initiation of psychological support.

Summary of the impact

Archaeologists routinely investigate human remains which play a vital role in understanding past societies. In recent years, however, increasing restrictions have impeded excavation and research and this has affected public engagement as applied to skeletal material. The `bones without barriers' case study is underpinned by research into the ethics of burial archaeology which supports the need for openness and debate. This research prompted the mobilisation of the archaeological community to challenge the conditions being implemented by the Ministry of Justice. The result has been a significant change in governmental attitude which has far-reaching implications for the whole heritage sector.

Summary of the impact

The International Institute for Sign Languages and Deaf Studies (iSLanDS) is a world leader in the systematic comparative research on sign languages (Sign Language Typology), and conducts the world's largest typological projects on sign language structures, using a large international partnership network. The impact of this work, often in developing countries, is seen in the domains of:

a) improved educational attainment and professional development for marginalised groups (deaf sign language users); and

b) linguistic rights for sign language users through engagement with international policy makers, non-governmental organisations and professional bodies (in India, in Turkey and with international bodies).

Summary of the impact

Historical research by UCLan staff has underpinned significant re-developments at the People's History Museum (PHM) and Co-operative College (CC), which have enhanced their out-reach across the region and beyond.

• The academic strength of proposals from the PHM and CC, derived from their connection with UCLan, was a key factor in their securing c.£15m worth of support for capital redevelopments.
• Historical research has been interpreted into new galleries on the history of democracy and the co-operative movement.
• Historical research has been translated into public lectures and conferences, and into workshops for co-operators, curators, archivists and librarians.

Summary of the impact

Projects within the Silicates Research Unit have expanded the aesthetic and technical boundaries of ceramic materials and have had a significant impact on sustainable practices and materials within contemporary design. In response to increasingly stringent sustainable construction legislation, an AHRC Grant (£163,000) funded Binns and Bremner's development of a unique process for converting low-value mineral waste into high-value architectural products, avoiding reliance on non-replenishable materials.

Testing by the Environment Agency National Testing Laboratory has verified their innovative material meets British Standards for architectural materials (UK patent application, currently pending publication). It has also confirmed that the incorporation of Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) lead bearing glass (designated by the Environment Agency as hazardous waste) in the new material results in the lead content being safely encapsulated, offering a solution to the global problem of hazardous CRT waste glass recycling - allowing CRT glass to be re-classified as a safe raw material.

Summary of the impact

This research has made a sustained and continuing impact on the development and application of the substantive criminal law, including mens rea and general defences, and especially in the areas of complicity and homicide, in terms of

i) development of the law by the appellate courts;

ii) application of the law by practitioners; and

iii) government policy as to the reform of the law of murder and complicity.

Summary of the impact

This case study refers to the work of Professor Thankom Arun of the Institute of Global Finance and Development (IGFD) at UCLan, who has been working very closely with Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) and international development agencies to understand and tackle the critical issue of finance in the development process. The ingenuity and originality of this type of research has had a profound impact on national and international policy debates, challenging and disproving misunderstandings about the inability of the poor to engage effectively with financial services provision, such as savings and insurance. The research has had a significant direct impact on the functioning of microfinance institutions at the local and grassroots level and on the delivery of financial services to some of the most vulnerable communities around the world.

Summary of the impact

Ensuring that a new medicine improves or maintains a person's quality of life is important. Abbott's longstanding collaborative relationship with health professionals and service users has enabled the development of two patient-reported, quality of life instruments (CFQoL, LupusQoL). Abbott's expertise has contributed to the development of policy/guidelines concerning quality of life measurement in clinical trials for the European Medicines Agency and European Cystic Fibrosis Society. The instruments have been adopted internationally with the LupusQoL providing a global business opportunity for a US translation company. At the request of pharmaceutical companies, the LupusQoL is translated into the numerous languages required for use in their multi-national clinical trials of new medicines.

Summary of the impact

Research on the history and effects of language and ethnic policy during the Soviet and post-Soviet era, specifically with respect to the Udmurt Republic, has had a significant impact on the re- development of policy towards, and a resurgence of, minority language and culture in Udmurtia. The project:

• Provided the basis of policy briefings with government ministers and media representatives, which
• Informed the development of Udmurt language and cultural policy, and thereby
• Contributed to the emergence of new Udmurt language educational and media materials