FOR ALUMNI & FRIENDS OF QUEEN MARGARET UNIVERSITY - Issue 88 | MARCH 2021 - Celebrating 50 years of drama
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MAGAZINE
FOR ALUMNI & FRIENDS OF
QUEEN MARGARET UNIVERSITY
Issue 88 | MARCH 2021
Celebrating 50 years of drama QMU rises to the A Craiglang catch-up
& 75 years of speech challenges of the pandemic with Tam and Isa
04-05 06-07 08-09 10-11 12 – 13 14 – 15
NEWS PANDEMIC PANDEMIC COVID-19 OUTDOOR MADE AT QMU
IN BRIEF RESPONSE RESPONSE RESEARCH LEARNING
T
HERE IS NO denying that the last year has been one
of the most challenging periods in the history of
Queen Margaret University. Like all universities, we
have had to move quickly to adapt our teaching methods -
students now benefit from our blended learning approach
which involves a mix of face-to-face teaching and online QMU features in World How QMU is making a Empty Kitchens, Full People's experience Taking the classroom Celebrating class of
University Rankings difference Hearts of COVID into the forest 2020
learning. We have also had to reshape how we offer student
World's first master's Tutoring initiative helps Introducing rising star
support, run our commercial operations and undertake in mad studies Healthcare students pupils catch up with Loneliness amongst
our research. Every part of the University’s operations has support the NHS learning refugee community Ghemisola Ikumelo
Principal’s been impacted by the pandemic, yet we continue to deliver
CONTENTS
Welcome - preparing students for the world of work, supporting our
communities, driving forward important research, and
16 17 18 - 19 20-21
ENTREPRENEURS GRADUATES’ HEALTH AND HEALTH AND
focusing our activity on making a real difference to the ASSOCIATION REHABILITATION REHABILITATION
world around us.
I am deeply impressed at the resilience, and the passion
CONTACT:
and determination of QMU staff, students and graduates Development and Alumni Team
who contribute in a positive way to society. This edition E: alumni@qmu.ac.uk
of the magazine pays tribute to each and every member www.qmu.ac.uk/alumni-and-friends
of the University’s community who has used their skills,
Marketing and Communications Team
knowledge and time to help our communities in coping Creative hub SHIFTs President's update Equipping forensic Virtual reality gives
E: marketing@qmu.ac.uk
with and recovering from the pandemic. The first part of this online nurse examiners paramedics a reality
www.qmu.ac.uk to help in rape and check
magazine shares some of these stories. Our feature focusing Wine app quenches
Queen Margaret University, sexual assault cases
on our response to the pandemic helps to demonstrate the Edinburgh, EH21 6UU. thirst
important place that QMU inhabits, not only in the community, T: 0131 474 0000
but in UK higher education and indeed the world at large.
COVER PHOTOGRAPH:
22-23 24-25 26 27
In this most challenging of years, we are delighted to HEALTH AND HEALTH AND 75 YEARS 50 YEARS
Copyright BBC OF SPEECH
bring some much needed positivity. Our magazine not only REHABILITATION REHABILITATION OF DRAMA
Studios Scotland
focuses on the great work of our students, graduates and
staff, it celebrates our history, acknowledges our present,
DESIGN:
and looks with confidence towards our future. We take this
Marketing &
opportunity to share some significant milestones with you. Communications Team
This edition celebrates two anniversaries – 50 years of drama
and 75 years of speech sciences. We have a proud history PRINT:
of education in these specialist areas, and are pleased that This publication is printed on Oxygen Advancing dementia Lydia Osteoporosis Interview with Celebrating 50 years
Offset leadership Project Professor Janet Beck of drama & performing
some of our graduates and staff have agreed to share their arts
experiences and career stories with us. Sexual expression in Interview with Danielle
people with dementia RaceRunning
Jam, CBeebies
Like me, I know you’ll love hearing from our alumni, including
Hollywood actor Kevin McKidd, and Jane McCarry and Mark
Cox, AKA Isa and Tam, stars of the immensely popular TV STAY CONNECTED - Keep up to 28-29 30-31 32-33 34-36
sitcom ‘Still Game’. We are also proud to celebrate the date with QMU's news, events, 50 YEARS 50 YEARS 50 YEARS CELEBRATING
success of rising star and BAFTA winner Gbemisola Ikumelo, initiatives and successes by OF DRAMA OF DRAMA OF DRAMA PHILANTHROPY
who is fast becoming one of the leading comedy performers engaging with us on social
of her generation. media.
I hope you enjoy reading this celebratory edition as much
as I have, and find inspiration from some of our news facebook.com/
stories, features and interviews. If you are a graduate, please QueenMargaretUniversity
continue to connect with the University through our alumni Kevin McKidd – Q&A with actor From QMU to Power of philanthropy
office at E: alumni@qmu.ac.uk and if you are a member @QMUniversity The long road to Michael Nardone Craiglang Supporting students
of the public or are already connected with the University, twitter.com/QMUniversity Hollywood facing financial
please consider talking to our Development team on hardship
E: development@qmu.ac.uk about different ways you can
support our work. QMUniversity
youtube.com/QMUniversity Some of the articles featured in this
magazine are available online at:
With very best wishes www.qmu.ac.uk/magazine
instagram.com/
qmuni/
Sir Paul Grice FRSE, FAcSS
2 QMYOU / Principal's Welcome QMYOU / Contents 3
NEWS Award-winning mental health book
distributed across Scotland
‘
IN BRIEF
THE RECOVERY LETTERS’, a collection of writings
from people who have recovered, or are in the process
of recovering from depression, was included as part
of a mental health kit issued across Scotland. The kits
were distributed by Time to Tackle, a football-based
support initiative.
Edited by Dr Olivia Sagan, QMU’s Head of Psychology,
Sociology and Education, and James Withey, the book is an
anthology of letters from people of all ages and from all walks
of life who have struggled with depression and have set out
on the road to recovery through the cathartic power of writing.
QMU recognised in world university The Recovery Letters was chosen as a World Book Night
rankings title in 2018 and is on the Reading Agency’s list for mental Short course for third sector linked to
F
OR THE FIRST TIME, Queen Margaret University features health reading. Cosmopolitan magazine also named it one of publication of public sociology book
Q
in the QS World University Rankings, ranked in the top ‘12 Mental Health Books Everyone Should Read’.
The idea for the project resulted from Withey’s battle with MU HAS INTRODUCED a Postgraduate Certificate
70% of universities in the world.
depression after he was unable to find any personal accounts of (PgCert) in public sociology aimed at workers,
Now in their 17th year, the QS World University Rankings are the recovery and management of the condition while in residence volunteers and activists in the third sector, at
considered the world’s most consulted source of comparative in a psychiatric hospital, as well as Dr Sagan’s longitudinal the same time as publishing an acclaimed new book on
information about university performance. ❒ research with mentally ill adults learning how to write. public sociology. With contributions from academics,
Dr Sagan said: “We hope that the personal accounts included graduates and students from QMU and other
World’s first master’s in mad studies within the collection provide a sense of comfort and support for universities, and third sector organisations, ‘Public
T
HE WORLD’S FIRST master’s degree in mad studies is those who are living with mental ill-health during the particularly Sociology as Educational Practice’ is deemed to be a
now being offered by the University. Primarily a course challenging time of the COVID-19 pandemic.” ❒ ‘must-read’ for sociologists, educationalists, students,
for graduates with lived experience of mental health and community and social movement activists. It also
issues, the new MSc Mad Studies has been hailed as the most Swapping the classroom for woodland provides a core text for QMU’s postgraduate certificate
programme.
exciting piece of curriculum development in the last 20 years! adventures
L
Mad studies is a recognised academic discipline that explores The PgCert Public Sociology provides an opportunity for
IGHTING OUTDOOR FIRES, building bug houses those involved in community action and social movements to
the knowledge and actions that have grown from the global mad and baking bread over a campfire have resulted in learn relevant social analysis. It explores how social analysis
movement. It cuts across the fields of social sciences, healthcare New course to advance practice in the care students moving out of their traditional classrooms contributes to a range of professional, community action
and humanities and expresses a radical new voice in academia about home sector on campus and into an inspiring woodland setting in and social movement practices and encourages students to
A
madness. Musselburgh.
Dr Elaine Ballantyne, Senior Lecturer in Occupational Therapy at NEW COURSE which will help to improve care and reflect systematically on the relationship between practice
QMU, explained: “This is an important development that recognises advance professional practice within the care home Thanks to a new partnership with the National Trust for and theory in their current and future work in the community,
mad studies as an academic discipline, and the important contribution sector has been launched by QMU’s Division of Scotland, students on QMU’s Initial Teacher Education courses voluntary and public sector. The course draws extensively
that the mad community can make to the generation of knowledge Nursing. are enjoying the chance to develop outdoor skills in an open-air on the experience of QMU and other academics, which is
about madness. learning zone in the stunning grounds of Newhailes House published in Public Sociology as Educational Practice.
The new initiative responds to the need for an improvement in
“At the core of mad studies, we should have mad people, mad and Gardens. Read about the development of QMU’s outdoor Dr Eurig Scandrett, Senior Lecturer in Public Sociology at
multidisciplinary education opportunities which are specific to the
issues and mad culture. QMU is keen to push academic boundaries learning work on page 12 and 13. ❒ QMU and Programme Leader for the PgCert Public Sociology,
care home sector and which are suitable for a range of experienced
and we are passionate about social justice, equality of opportunity practitioners, whether they be in clinical, leadership, management edited the new book. He said: “We are at a critical point
and person-centred learning. or development roles. New film module launched where society is experiencing rapid change and an escalation
T
“We can’t wait to engage with students, who want to learn how mad Dr Caroline Dickson, Programme Leader for the new PgDip Person- of inequality. There has never been a more interesting or
EACHERS WHO WANT to use film as part of their
studies can meaningfully contribute to social justice and change.” ❒ centred Practice: Advancing Care Home Practice at QMU, explained: important time for people to engage with the subject of public
classroom teaching will now be able to embark
“Education provision that is specific to the care home sector is an sociology and to use new learning to fight for social justice.
on a film module with QMU.
New website dedicated to LGBT+ area of learning that has been sadly neglected. One of the most We hope this book, which embodies public sociology as a
I
The Professional Practice in Film Education is perfect for radical education, will be a thought provoking resource for
important things about this new course is that it recognises care
N RECENT MONTHS, QMU has created a section of its teachers who want to incorporate film into their teaching students, academics and practitioners.”
home practice as a specialism in its own right.
website which is dedicated to supporting people from its practice, as well as individuals who already have experience in
“There are an incredible range of professionals all working across the The book launch coincided with the launch of QMU's new
LGBT+ community. teaching moving image education, but who are keen to advance
care home sector. Multidisciplinary teams made up of nurses, care 10 week PgCert Public Sociology, which started in early
The University is deeply committed to equality and diversity, and their skills.
workers, allied health professionals, managers, chaplains and social 2021. Course details are available on the QMU website at
part of that commitment is to create a welcoming environment on As Scotland seeks to develop its screen industries, it is
workers all make an important contribution to the overall success of www.qmu.ac.uk. ❒
campus and online for all staff and students. Particularly for new becoming increasing important to encourage young people
service provision and management. But to be truly successful, it is
students moving away from home for this first time, it can be a to express themselves through the medium of film, and develop
critical that everyone is involved in creating person-centred cultures
daunting prospect making new friends and settling in to a new life. their screen practice from a young age.
which allow people, both living and working within the care homes,
It’s important that everyone feels welcome and has good access to Dr Robert Munro, Lecturer in Film and Media at QMU, said:
to flourish.”
social and support networks. "We're delighted to be delivering this new module in conjunction
Dr Dickson concluded: “We have taken a multidisciplinary approach
The new area of the website helps the LGBT+ community find out with Screen Scotland. We hope that the course will provide a
to developing this new course by collaborating with professionals in
about access to the LBGT+ Student Society, LGBT+ Staff Network, platform to consolidate existing knowledge and begin to build a
care homes; business; nursing; and palliative and community settings.
and well as support, wellbeing and counselling services. Find out framework of best practice in film education across Scotland.” ❒
We hope this unique course will build morale amongst staff who are
more at: www.qmu.ac.uk/lgbt ❒ able to benefit from excellent development opportunities, whilst also
improving quality standards and leadership across the care home
sector.” ❒
4 QMYOU / News in Brief QMYOU / News in Brief 5
Health students drop everything
RESPONDING TO to support the NHS
S
uddenly, it was all go! While the rest of us were getting
used to working from home, QMU’s healthcare students
THE PANDEMIC
took up the charge, responding to urgent calls from
the Scottish Government to join Health Care Professionals
Council (HCPC) emergency registers. Before the end of
semester, students from QMU’s Nursing, Physiotherapy,
Occupational Therapy, Therapeutic Radiography, Diagnostic
Radiography, Speech & Language Therapy, Dietetics and
Podiatry were catapulted into positions in the NHS and social
care settings.
What’s even more incredible is that each and every one of the
How the QMU community is
University’s fourth-year health sciences students who was eligible
to register with the HCPC wasted no time in doing so. Even
though these are uncertain times for everyone, QMU healthcare
making a difference
students have risen to the occasion and continue to play a vital
role in the rehabilitation of those recovering from COVID-19.
Any thoughts of holidays or graduation celebrations were quickly
replaced with more pressing issues such as relocation plans
P
and role preparation. It would be a career start like no other, but
ROVIDING PROVISIONS FOR the local women. Our mission, right from the onset, has been to without hesitation, the University and students worked together to help the new starts quickly slot into healthcare
community during lockdown, bolstering the make a difference, and we have a proud history of serving roles across the country.
NHS at the height of the pandemic, cooking the community and working to improve lives. One of the many QMU students who suddenly found themselves contributing to the national effort was
healthy meals for low income families and conducting Over the years, we have remained true to our roots. Our physiotherapist Sophie McAuliffe, who back in April, said: “There is going to be a greater role for physiotherapists
essential coronavirus research have all been part of core values have prepared us well to rise to some of the in the coming weeks and months because people who become unwell with COVID-19 will not only need us while
QMU’s response to the global pandemic. challenges created by COVID-19, and our tremendous they are sick, but afterwards too as they begin rehabilitation.
Good things can come out of bad situations, but there sense of purpose has propelled the QMU community to “Starting work in this field in the midst of a global pandemic is going to be a challenge, but it’s one I think QMU
is no denying that 2020 was a shocker of a year. work tirelessly in its efforts to improve the world around us. has equipped us for.”
No-one could have envisaged all of the challenges that There have been huge obstacles along the way, but Outside of the School of Health Sciences, QMU students have found other ways to help the NHS in the fight
the pandemic would bring. However, if we look back at making a positive contribution is part of QMU’s DNA. against the virus. A prime example of this is the ‘Race Around the World’ challenge, hosted by the Men’s Rugby
QMU’s history, we have a reputation as a trailblazing It’s what makes us tick. We are delighted to be able to team and run in collaboration with all QMU sports clubs and societies. Open to the whole University community,
institution which has tackled some of the most pressing share some of our stories to give you a flavour of the participants were tasked with running 40,000km collectively (equivalent to 34 cities across 30 different countries),
issues facing society. In 1875, the institution grew out of ways in which our incredible students, graduates, staff tracking their progress using the exercise monitoring app Strava, with sponsorship money going to NHS Charities
the need to address two important areas – the diet of the and supporters have contributed to the national effort in Together. ❒
urban poor, and educational and career opportunities for responding to the global pandemic. ❒
6 QMYOU / Responding to the Pandemic QMYOU / Responding to the Pandemic 7
Partnership working
makes all the
difference
Lewis branded local hero Supporting the local
for Empty Kitchens, Full community
Hearts initiative
T Tutoring initiative helps pupils
he issue of where to buy flour and toilet rolls
I
was a hot topic on community social media
catch up with learning lost
t’s heart-warming when QMU students get the sites during lockdown. When supermarket
recognition they deserve, and Lewis MacLachlan shelves were bare, the local community could always
certainly touched the hearts of many with his rely on BaxterStorey, catering services partner at
selfless efforts to cater for people in need during QMU, to provide essentials for students and local during lockdown
T O
the pandemic. residents. At one point, Maggie’s Bar and Café at he power of partnership working should
Before the COVID-19 outbreak, Lewis, a former chef, QMU’s Students’ Union, was almost the only place never be underestimated, particularly ver lockdown, education authorities became aware that
was studying towards his MSc Gastronomy at QMU, in Musselburgh where locals could lay their hands during times of crisis. QMU values the many school pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds
but as we moved into lockdown, he put his studies on self-raising flour! strong and trusting relationships it has with had fallen behind in their learning.
on hold to set up Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts. This But staff from BaxterStorey didn’t just look after the its supporters, and we were delighted that There are many reasons why a young person may have struggled
volunteer-led initiative uses furloughed or redundant catering needs of the immediate QMU community, the one of our most impactful donors, Santander to keep up with schooling, but mental health problems, poverty
chefs in empty or unused kitchens, who divert surplus team worked tirelessly supporting various charities Universities, immediately stepped up and and caring responsibilities could be some of the reasons why their
food from restaurants and businesses and transform it and community groups during the most challenging repurposed £35,000 funding to support our families were also unable to cope.
into healthy daily meal packs. of times. Along with the Students’ Union, ResLife and students who were experiencing financial
The MCR Pathways Lockdown Survey 1 of disadvantaged
The healthy packs are then delivered to people who the University’s UCU branch, they put together over hardship due to the pandemic.
and care-experienced young people found that 68% of those
have been shielding, isolating or living in poverty. The a hundred wellbeing packs for students in University The organisation also provided £50,000 to both surveyed had done no school work during lockdown. Without
initiative helps ensure that people who are most in accommodation. They also supported the social QMU and Edinburgh Napier University to supply urgent intervention, it was feared that pupils in East Lothian may
need receive daily deliveries of healthy meals on a free, enterprise Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts, to provide over thank you gifts to 1,400 students who helped the never catch up – putting them at significant disadvantage in both
non-judgemental basis. 1000 packs of soup for people in need. One of the NHS in the fight against COVID-19. the short and long term.
BaxterStorey chefs covered shifts in the kitchens of a
Lewis’s selfless efforts to respond to the crisis and QMU’s Nursing and Allied Health Professional In response to this crisis, QMU joined forces with the STV Children’s
local residential home, while the company’s manager
fight food poverty where recognised by the Edinburgh students were able to apply to receive a luxury Appeal, East Lothian Council and a local family charity, to launch the
collaborated with Resilient Musselburgh to help create
Local Heroes Awards, run by the Evening News. At the hamper full of delicious Scottish produce. East Lothian Tutoring Initiative. The project is supporting S4 – S6
access to essential provisions for those who required
online award ceremony, he was named Health Champion The hampers were created by David McVey, a pupils in all six secondary schools across the county.
urgent assistance. ❒
of the Year. However, the judges felt his efforts were graduate of QMU’s MSc Gastronomy and owner
Callum Maguire, Head of Widening Participation and Outreach
worthy of the top accolade and presented him with the of Edinburgh’s Artisan Larder Scotland.
at QMU, is passionate about closing the attainment gap and
Local Hero Award. David said: “We have loved making up the supporting young people to achieve their potential no matter what
To date, Lewis’s Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts initiative hampers and hearing back from students who have their background. He said: “We are delighted that the STV Children’s
has provided over 500,000 meals to people all over enjoyed the selection of gifts including a range of Appeal and a local family charity is financing our delivery of online
Edinburgh on a non-judgmental and non-profit basis. ❒ Scottish cheeses, Edinburgh Honey, Tobermory tutoring which will provide one-to-one support for senior years’
trout and locally produced tea, coffee, biscuits, school pupils.”
and preserves. We wanted to make them feel
The initiative has also created jobs; young graduates, who may
Sweet surprise for NHS staff
extraordinary and we are thankful that this support
have struggled to secure employment due to the pandemic, have
package has contributed to our business and
A
been employed as tutors to support the school pupils in key areas
allowed us to do something special for others who
cross the UK, people gained a newfound respect for our NHS. of their learning.
are playing a critical part in the country’s recovery.”
As a nation we were desperate to thank them for their efforts Thomas Kelly, Head of Development and Alumni Relations at
and support their resilience as essential frontline workers in Coming from a family of nurses, David’s mother
QMU, said: “The East Lothian Tutoring Initiative is showcasing an
the battle to save lives. and sister have both worked on the frontline during
area of work which has never been done before on this scale, and
the pandemic. He confirmed: “I am grateful to all
To show her gratitude, one International Management and Leadership we are excited to see the immediate impact on individuals, as well
the nurses and healthcare professionals who are
graduate was instrumental in securing a donation of 60,000 sweet treats as the longer term learning outcomes.
at risk everyday so that we can be safe. I hope our
for frontline healthcare staff. “Without the incredible support from our two major donors we
hampers provided a little respite.”
Tina Cunningham, Community Support Director for Border Biscuits, would be unable to tackle the inequalities facing some of our
This initiative was part of a much larger Santander
arranged for the gifting of several thousands of boxes of the company's younger population, and provide them with the fighting chance
COVID-19 emergency support package at QMU,
biscuits to NHS staff in the Lanarkshire and Lothian regions. that they deserve.” ❒
totalling over £75,000. The additional funding was
Richard Bent, Senior Lecturer at QMU's Business School, contacted his used to support student start-up businesses and
former student with the idea of supplying a staff hub at St John's Hospital in Boxes of Border other students who were facing financial hardship
West Lothian with boxes of their signature product. From there, the initiative Biscuits ready for due to the pandemic.”
quickly escalated, with the company donating biscuits to several different distribution
QMU is indebted to Santander for all it has done to
healthcare providers through its Border Community Support Foundation. ❒
support our students during these unprecedented
times. ❒
8 QMYOU / Responding to the Pandemic QMYOU / Responding to the Pandemic 9
Investigating isolation and
“We learnt about a wide range of
different experiences from our interviews.
For some, their suffering was being
loneliness amongst asylum seekers compounded by a profound sense of
isolation and hopelessness. Yet there
and refugees during COVID-19 were others, like recently reunited families,
who were thankful for the chance to
hunker down safely together. One man,
W
HEN THE COVID-19 Scottish Government’s Chief Scientist’s whose wife had arrived in Scotland just
pandemic began to unfold, Office in May 2020 demonstrating their before the pandemic struck told us about
the Scottish Government commitment to understanding and the joy of being able to spend so much
allocated some £5 million in funding addressing the extra pressures faced by time with his wife – ‘a walk in the park
for universities to develop and carry refugees as a result of the pandemic. together almost made it possible to forget
out research to combat the virus and about coronavirus,' he said.
For Dr Sagan, who has been involved
limit its impact on society. in researching loneliness for some years, “Refugees and asylum seekers, like all
Real Lives
Professor Bulley, who is Co-Director of the What groups took part in the research? As part of this initiative, QMU’s Dr this research presented an opportunity to of us, seek to live their lives as best they
Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation We heard from people who have Alison Strang, Senior Research Fellow explore the experience of being in the eye can, managing the challenges and making
Research at QMU, gives us an insight into experienced both short and long-term at the Institute for Global Health and of the perfect storm: a global pandemic, the most of opportunities. Our research
– people’s
her recent COVID-19 project. effects of COVID-19, as well as other Development, and Dr Olivia Sagan, Head a loneliness pandemic and the complex has deepened our understanding of
illnesses and health conditions. We also of the Division of Psychology, Sociology and profoundly lonely experience of the social connections that refugees in
Tell us about your research and why involved people who felt socially isolated; and Education, received £64,098 to losing one’s home, country, family and Scotland are either able to access or are
experience of
it’s important? people from different geographical areas research the impacts of COVID-19 community ties. excluded from in the current pandemic
This research looked at people’s and minority groups; those involved in restrictions on isolation and loneliness conditions. In addition, it has explored
Dr Strang said: “Our research
experiences of illness during the pandemic, funding, designing, and delivering services; amongst asylum seekers and refugees. the way that people actively draw on
investigated the ways that the sudden
COVID-19
but mainly focused on those who contracted as well as people who advocate for others. their connections to manage and shape
With the support of the Scottish Refugee rupture of already limited connections
COVID-19. We then used the insights to their own lives. A sense of control over
Council and local authorities around (for example, the closure of facilities
develop recommendations about the type How will the results be used and what your own life is crucial to good mental
W
Scotland, Dr Strang and Dr Sagan’s such as schools and libraries, the sudden
of support that people need to help them happens next? health and wellbeing. Yet in the absence
E LOVE TO share stories of team carried out more than 50 in-depth absence of community groups and the
recover. The report was submitted in October of an understanding of how people such
how QMU’s work is making a interviews with asylum seekers and dependence on phones and computers
By carefully listening to people’s 2020 and will be available for policy makers, as refugees are experiencing the COVID
practical impact on everyday refugees living in Scotland. Additionally, for almost all human contact) impacted
experiences we were able to identify services providers and other interested pandemic, it is only too easy to thwart
lives. an online questionnaire was set up to people’s capacity to cope with their
barriers that they encountered whilst trying parties to use. people unintentionally, even when the aim
Right now, there is no greater threat to gather national data on refugees’ social challenging lives. We have learnt about
to access support. This useful information The next stage will be to build on this is to support and enable independence
our way of life than COVID-19, and our networks. the many creative and active ways
is key in helping service designers develop research by looking at the longer term and resilience.” Dr Strang said.
inspirational researchers wasted no time Dr Strang said: “For more than 20 refugees have been managing everyday
accessible health and social care services effects of COVID-19, with a focus on “We have been pleased to present our
in responding to the crisis. years QMU’s Institute for Global Health stress; however, we have also seen the
which meet people’s needs. people living on low incomes and people findings and recommendations to the
Professor Cathy Bulley is dedicated to and Development has been involved in profound sense of isolation experienced
from black, Asian and minority groups. ❒ Chief Scientist’s Office of the Scottish
conducting research that can make a real researching the psychosocial wellbeing by people with limited English. Even trying
Why is this work important? Government, and will continue our
difference to people’s quality of life. of people forced to flee their homes and to participate in online language classes
Everyone affected by COVID-19 has the Interested in this research? commitment here at QMU to improving
At the start of the pandemic, she worked seek refuge elsewhere. We already know often created more stress than benefit
right to have their voice heard. The research Follow Twitter the experience of refugees and asylum
with a team of multi-disciplinary researchers there are many pressures on people with the challenges of trying to keep
gives us an understanding of what people @SupportAfterCovidStudy seekers in Scotland and around the
at QMU to apply for rapid research funding as they try to manage their lives and up with the conversation and navigate
need to help them recover – no matter world,” Dr Strang added. ❒
from the Chief Scientist's Office. This integrate into their new communities computers in English.”
where they live, whether or not they spent
supported the team’s research into people’s time in hospital, or what ethnic group they during the period of asylum seeking or “The sense of powerlessness in an
experience of illness during the pandemic are from. resettlement. So, it seemed very likely uncertain situation where it is difficult You can listen to Dr Olivia Sagan’s
and is enabling QMU to make a positive Ultimately, we are able to share the results that the additional challenges of the to know how to access trustworthy postcast about loneliness at:
contribution at this time of crisis and well of our research to help other organisations pandemic and its restrictions on these information, or how to keep safe, can www.spreaker.com/user/qmuni/qmu-
beyond. develop accessible and effective services. groups would be enormous. We were be overwhelming and very damaging to podcast-episode-4
pleased to receive the funding from the mental health,” Dr Strang said.
10 QMYOU / Making a Difference Through Research QMYOU / Making a Difference Through Research 11
Student primary teachers
get serious about outdoor
learning – taking the
classroom into the forest
O
NE POSITIVE OUTCOME from the Tasked with enthusing students about
COVID-19 pandemic is that children outdoor education is former headteacher
and adults discovered the benefits Chris Green, and Forest School Leader
of connecting with nature. Whilst parents and former teacher, Patrick Boxall, who
were challenged by the demands of home now lecture on QMU’s BA (Hons) Education
schooling, many used the great outdoors Studies (Primary).
as a healthy escape from the digital world Patrick Boxall explained: “Many of the
and a platform to engage youngsters in students had uncertainties about their own
new learning opportunities. knowledge of the outdoors, so the course
Although lockdown helped reinforce the is helping develop their practical skills and
benefits of outdoor life, last year, QMU was teaching around outdoor learning. The work
ahead of the curve when it built in outdoor we did with students in the magnificent Lord
learning as a key part of its new teacher Ancrum’s Wood, in the grounds around
education programmes, which embed a Newbattle Abbey College in Midlothian, really
commitment to environmental sustainability inspired the students to develop a whole new
at their core. Post lockdown, its education set of skills. Their reaction to the course has
experts are even more acutely aware of the been incredible and they seem to be loving
importance that outdoor learning can have every minute!”
on children’s mental and physical wellbeing. Patrick continued: “Our aim is to develop
The University’s new BA (Hons) Education a new generation of primary teachers who
Studies (Primary), which launched last have the skills and knowledge to help children
year, has a contingent of highly skilled and develop as engaged, healthy and resilient
experienced educators to equip new teachers citizens who will make a positive contribution
with specialist outdoor skills, and it seems to society. There are many pressures on
everyone wants to get involved! primary schools, so we’re showcasing outdoor
The students have loved immersing learning in a way that schools can sustain for
themselves in woodland tasks and adventures themselves. This will help more young people
but with a serious side to skills development: develop a love and understanding of the
this is more than a stroll in the park! Students outdoors which they can take into adulthood.”
are working towards the Forest and Outdoor Chris Green said: “We are continuing to
Learning Award (FOLA), which is a national develop our outdoor learning training on
certificate recognised by the Forest School the back of COVID and have been met with
Association and the Scottish Credit and overwhelming enthusiasm from our new
Qualifications Framework (SCQF). partnership organisations - the RSPB; The
Of course, outdoor learning should be fun, John Muir Trust, LOVE Gorgie Farm and
so apart from participating in the RSPB Great Newbattle Abbey College – which are helping
Birdwatch, students built over 100 bug hotels us upskill our trainee teachers through a range
which were then installed at LOVE Gorgie of exciting outdoor learning opportunities.
City Farm in Edinburgh. Swapping a stuffy We are also in discussions with the National
classroom for the chance to hone new skills in Trust for Scotland about promoting access
a magical ancient woodland, has opened the to outdoor spaces within the beautiful
students’ eyes to the possibilities that outdoor grounds of Newhailes House and Gardens
learning has to offer. in Musselburgh.”
Chris concluded: “The future looks bright for
outdoor learning and the timing is now right to
ensure it develops as an essential component
within modern education.” ❒
12 QMYOU / Outdoor Learning QMYOU / Outdoor Learning 13
Celebrating the 2020 has been a year
class of 2020 like no other for rising
star Gbemisola
We are incredibly
W
E ALWAYS GET a thrill when we see our
graduates popping up on our TV screens.
Chiara Menozzi
proud of our Class Hearts burst with pride when we recognise
the names and faces of our acting and drama graduates
of 2020; our newest as they inhabit new characters in the latest TV drama
alumni, who are now or soap.
Usually it’s a slow burn in the acting business – securing
part of a world-wide one gig at a time, but for Gbemisola Ikumelo, all her
community of over Christmas’s seemed to come at once. In the space of a
fortnight in 2020, she had won a TV BAFTA for her short
30,000 alumni from ‘Brain in Gear’, had a comedy series based on said short
commissioned by the BBC, and been cast in an American
over 90 countries. comedy-drama! Gbemisola continued to fill our TV screens
The determination, strength and resilience shown by our 2020 later in 2020, appearing alongside Hugh Laurie as Steff
graduates was and continues to be, an inspiration to everyone Frost in the BBC One series ‘Roadkill’. A quick flick over to
in the QMU community. ITV and you could also find her sharing the studio with Tom
Chiara Menozzi, Students' Union President, said: “It's been Allen, Paloma Faith and Joanna Lumley on the ‘Jonathan
incredible to see the Class of 2020 succeed in the toughest of Ross Show’.
times. They spent years helping one another through the ups Gbemisola studied BA Acting at QMU and, after
and downs of student life, and I know they'll continue to cheer graduating in 2003, she steadily developed her career with
each other on, long after they finally get to walk across the Usher several parts in both theatre and film. However, it was her
Hall stage. We’re super proud of them and their achievements. role as the troublesome Kadean in Dane Baptiste’s show
And, we believe that if they can make it through 2020, then they ‘Sunny D’ which gained her recognition as a comedy actor.
can accomplish anything. It’s testament to their resilience, and She was snapped up by the BBC and cast in ‘Famalam’,
their compassion and support for one another and the wider a zany new comedy sketch show featuring an array of in Gear series continues the story of Remi as she attempts
QMU community." oddball characters and off-the-wall situations. The super to get on with her life, but normal everyday tasks prove
While we were not able to come together to celebrate our sharp sketch show stars black British talent behind and in impossible due to constant interruptions from her inner
graduates hard work and wonderful achievements at official front of the camera. And in 2018, when the show first hit thoughts.
graduation ceremonies, we held an online celebration on 10th our screens, British television was ready and waiting for Shane Allen, Controller Comedy Commissioning, said:
July 2020 to toast their successes. a high profile comedic exploration of the contemporary “Gbemisola has fast become one of the leading comedy
The celebration included special congratulatory messages from black British experience. Gbemisola received a BAFTA performers of her generation. Her range of characters is
our Chancellor, Prue Leith CBE; Principal and Vice-Chancellor, nomination for ‘Best Female Performance in a Comedy’ a joy to behold and we’re proud to see her spread her
Sir Paul Grice; Chiara; and graduates who welcomed our Class for her work on ‘Famalam’, for which she is also a writer. considerable talent wings as creator, writer and co-director
of 2020 into the alumni community. ❒ Outside of Famalam, Gbemisola spent much of her time of this very special mini-series.”
developing her own comedy writing. Her most recent, Brain Josh Cole, Head of Comedy, BBC Studios, described
in Gear, debuted as one of the BBC’s critically acclaimed Gbemisola as a “uniquely multitalented creative force”! High
Comedy Shorts in 2019, and received a BAFTA for best praise indeed from the British Broadcasting Corporation,
short form programme. but Gbemisola is also getting used to international
Written by and starring Gbemisola, Brain In Gear is a recognition having starred in Netflix’s ‘Sex Education’
flat-share comedy centred around Remi, a “normal” single and through her involvement in Amazon’s reimagining of
woman in her twenties who is battling anxiety in the form ‘A League of Their Own’.
of her two alter egos, Boss Bitch Remi and Dark Remi. There is no doubt that 2020 has been a hard one for the
Gbemisola could hardly believe her luck when her short creative industries but it has been a year like no other for
was commissioned to run as a series on BBC2. The Brain this immensely talented rising star! ❒
Presentation of Honorary Degrees
Each year, QMU awards honorary degrees to individuals who have made significant contributions in their fields and
in 2020 honorary degrees were awarded to:
• Professor Petra Wend PhD, FRSA, FRSE • Fergus Linehan • Kevin Browne-MacLeod
- Former Principal and Vice-Chancellor Director of the Edinburgh International Director at Who Cares? Scotland -
of Queen Margaret University - Degree of Festival - Degree of Doctor of Letters, Degree of Doctor of the University,
Doctor of Education, Honoris Causa Honoris Causa Honoris Causa
14 QMYOU / Made at QMU QMYOU / Made at QMU 15
G R A D UAT E S ’
Creative hub for entrepreneurs makes the A S S O C I AT I O N
U P D A T E
SHIFT online during global pandemic
Madras Lodge, the GA's holiday
property at Gullane, East Lothian
By Lindesay Irvine, President
L
IKE MOST OF the world we have had a complex AGM
TYPICALLY, THE SCENE at SHIFT - a week-long summer and interesting time at the Graduates’ Association The AGM was delayed while we worked out the process for a
since the last update in QMYOU. In March, we saw
school run in conjunction by QMU, the Glasgow School of
Art and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland - would have Wine app quenches thirst for the QMU Year 2 Media and Communication students
meeting during COVID-19 restrictions. Eventually we managed a
face to face AGM (with face coverings) at the Royal Scots Club in
complete a social media project for us, which has resulted Edinburgh followed by lunch for those wishing it. The President
been one of creative entrepreneurs huddled up in groups,
online training in a fabulous new website. Have a look for yourselves at and Treasurer positions were elected – myself as President and
W
busy brainstorming and collaborating on different projects.
www.qmugraduateassociation.com. Krissy McKale as Treasurer. Our social secretary, Cecilia Young,
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, SHIFT 2020 had to move hile the ongoing pandemic has proven to be a
and membership secretary, Sylvia Northcott, were re-elected for
online, but that didn't mean that last year's event was any less challenging time for many a small business, some We would be delighted if you wished to join us at the Association,
another year and we welcomed Roni Bamber to the committee.
a hive of activity than in previous years. With SHIFT regarded online ventures have experienced considerable where a major benefit is access to Madras Lodge in Gullane for
nationally as an exemplar in university collaboration, the growth. This has undoubtedly been the case for Quenchable, short breaks and holidays. Exclusive use of the property is only
partners worked with the Creative Entrepreneurs’ Club to an insightful wine training app targeted towards the hospitality possible if you are a member of the Association. The Atholl Crescent award 2020
develop a new website (www.shiftintoyourfuture.com) and industry. Although the 2020 graduation ceremony was deferred until 2021,
pivot the whole event online. Socialising we were delighted to be able to award the Atholl Crescent Award
Officially launched in May 2020 after an 18-month development
With over 100 students across the three institutions and four period, the app is the brainchild of Edinburgh based entrepreneur 2020 to Toby Douglas who graduated with BA (Hons) Business
Our coffee get-togethers on the second Tuesday of the month
other universities taking part, SHIFT 2020 was a progressive and QMU Gastronomy graduate, Nikki Welch. Nikki received Management with Finance, and wish him well in his future career.
have moved online, using Zoom, which has enabled more
programme of interactive workshops, activities and break-out regular support from the University's on-campus Business members to meet from varying parts of the UK and worldwide,
conversations and reflections facilitated by over 40 leaders in Innovation Zone (BIZ). In an interview with The Herald, she said: and we have also started evening chats (drinks included if so Be part of the Graduates' Association
design innovation, performing and production arts, screen, "They have helped us make connections and access funding, wished) on the fourth Thursday of the month. This has helped
curation and creative project management – among others. Finally, we would encourage those of you who have yet to join
specifically from Santander, that has allowed us to continue to those members who work during the day to get together too. We the Graduates’ Association to consider doing so this year. We
Feedback from the participants was excellent: innovate and support our customers during the pandemic." are really appreciative of Cecilia’s organisation of this process are committed to friendship, support and mentoring of all the
"I went into SHIFT unsure what to do with my future, having Although the closure of the hospitality sector has been a and hope to continue a version once we are unlocked from the QMU family through our activities and contacts. We work closely
hit a wall in regards to my creativity during lockdown. SHIFT worrying time for Quenchable, the app experienced a reversal COVID-19 restrictions. alongside QMU alumni but are a separate organisation run by,
has got me back into my creative thinking and inspired me of fortune after creating an offer allowing furloughed hospitality Unsurprisingly, since March, our planned social events have and for, graduates and previous and current staff of QMU. ❒
to pursue my ideas I had previously put to one side. I have staff, with a bit of extra time on their hands, to access the app for all been cancelled but in a spirit of optimism we are working
developed substantial business knowledge in order to make just £1. Nikki said: "By doing this we were able to connect with towards putting some in place for 2021. Notification of these will
this idea reality. I have learnt so much over this week and the our users directly, and this has provided us with a new market be advertised on the website and also sent to members.
speakers have really motivated me to be the best version of and a direct conversation with the people who need the app.”
myself. Here's raising a glass to their continued success! ❒ QMUGA CONTACTS
"Thank you, team SHIFT, for an amazing, creative and
interactive week! I am so thankful I was accepted onto the Lindesay Irvine: Sylvia Northcott: Ian McMillan: Cecilia Young:
course." ❒ E: president@qmuga.org.uk E: membership@qmuga.org.uk E: mlbook@qmuga.org.uk E: social@qmuga.org.uk
(President) (Membership Secretary) (Madras Lodge bookings) (booking social activities)
16 QMYOU / Shaping Futures Through Entrepreneurship QMYOU / Graduates' Association 17
Q
MU IS TO offer a new forensic practice course for nurses
which it is hoped, subject to the outcome of a Test of
Change project, will help to build a multi-disciplinary
workforce for the future by equipping them to carry out forensic
medical examinations and provide evidence for court. The
development supports the work of the Scottish Government’s
Rape and Sexual Assault Taskforce led by the interim Chief Medical
Officer for Scotland.
The Scottish Government is funding 20 places on QMU’s
Postgraduate Certificate in Person-Centred Practice: Advanced
Forensic Practice (PgC PCP: AFP). This will be the first course of its
kind in Scotland and represents over four years of policy, strategy
and partnership work to change forensic practice.
This qualification will support any future development of advanced
forensic practitioners in Scotland, who, as registered nurses, will be
qualified to carry out forensic examinations and gather evidence to
New
support criminal investigations and court cases. An important part of
this new nursing role will be to skillfully blend the forensic work with
person-centred care – treating everyone as an unique individual - and
working to reduce trauma to the person by looking after their health
forensic
and wellbeing, and respecting their rights, personhood and dignity.
Jessica Davidson, Senior Clinical Forensic Charge Nurse with
the South East Scotland Police Custody and Forensic Examination
Service at NHS Lothian, will lead the new course at QMU. Jessica
nursing
explained: “Undertaking a forensic examination in sexual assault
and rape cases requires the examiner to treat each person as an
individual and take responsibility for that episode of care from start to
finish. What is unique about this role is that the examination involves
documenting and interpreting any injuries that the individual may
course will
have sustained at the time of the incident.”
“The examination team’s work also involves protecting the forensic
integrity of the person, the treatment room and the case. They use
hard science, clinical observation and the law to take responsibility
help people
for the case itself, as well as the individual. Anyone who has been
raped or sexually assaulted, or hurt by crime, experiences trauma. It is
therefore important that the examiner works to minimise the potential
for further trauma and begin the process of supporting recovery.”
Professor Brendan McCormack, Divisions of Nursing, Occupational
who have
Therapy & Arts Therapies at QMU, said: “The Scottish Government
has been pivotal in enabling this course to come to fruition and
we are extremely proud to be involved in this developing area of
person centred nursing. The course also aims to develop nurses
experienced
with leadership skills so they can direct and advance this important
area of work in Scotland. This will help to ensure better support and
health and wellbeing outcomes for individuals who have experienced
rape or sexual assault.
“Our Advanced Forensic Practice course will be delivered in
rape and
partnership with NHS Lothian, the Scottish judiciary, Police Scotland
and The UK Association of Forensic Nurses (UKAFN). This means we
will have the best experts in Scotland to guide our students through
this exciting learning experience.”
sexual
Professor Alex McMahon, NHS Lothian’s Director of Nursing,
Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals and Executive Lead,
REAS and Prison Healthcare, said: “The important role of skilled
nursing practice in forensic examination is one that NHS Lothian is
proud to have helped to pioneer, and we are therefore delighted to
assault
be involved in the partnership delivering Scotland’s first postgraduate
qualification in its advanced practice.”
Professor Fiona Coutts, Dean of Health Sciences at QMU,
concluded: “This is a significant step forward in advancing this
important specialist area of nursing. The School of Nursing at QMU
has world renowned expertise in person-centred care – indeed, it is
part of the DNA of our health sciences work. I am pleased that our
nursing leadership is influencing the focus on this emerging area of
nursing and that the new course aligns with the University’s mission to
shape a better world through education, research and innovation.” ❒
18 QMYOU / Making a Difference in Healthcare QMYOU / Making a Difference in Healthcare 19Keeping it real – VR gives
paramedics a reality check
L
ONG GONE ARE the days when a paramedic was in a controlled manner. Sometimes that situation maybe a day-
referred to as an ‘ambulance driver’. to-day occurrence like dealing with someone in labour, or we
can crank up the pressure by allowing them to experience a
The varied and demanding role of a front line paramedic major incident or multiple casualty trauma.”
extends way beyond patient transport or administering care in Sona continued: “Working on the front line, paramedics are Paul Gaughan
the back of an ambulance. In more recent years, the needs of exposed to stressful and sometimes extreme situations that - Lecturer in
the population have changed, which has had a direct impact require quick decision making and decisive action. Often, people Paramedic
on the role of the paramedic. don’t feel they are prepared for these situations but virtual reality Science
As our older population increases, so do the number of people is proving to be a game changer. It can be immensely useful
who live with multiple long term conditions. The paramedic has in helping students get a feel for the situations that they will be
had to evolve to accommodate the demands of operating in working in. It allows them to feel as if they are part of a live event
increasing diverse situations and working environments. by learning from an expert who is dealing with the situation. They
Nowadays, it is not uncommon for paramedics to be attached can use their observation skills; make assessments about what
to a GP practice or to be working in community teams who aim is going on; see decision making in action; and identify risk. It
to treat people locally and enable them to keep living in their provides an immersive experience which will prepare them well
homes. They can also be found working in response teams, for delivering the person-centred care required from a modern
dealing with major incidents; or in management roles in senior day paramedic.”
leadership positions. Billy Agnew, Founder of Viarama, said: “Particularly in the
In 2020, QMU commenced the first year of its new BSc current climate when everyone is working hard to keep students
Paramedic Science course to develop a new generation of safe, VR is proving invaluable. We can gently expose students
paramedics. To support the expansion of the role beyond acute to situations that would be extremely challenging in a real-world
trauma, new styles of teaching are being introduced. This is setting. VR is allowing our students to experience complex
helping learners understand the wider paramedic role which episodes of care, but the crucial difference is that we can control
now involves the management of long term conditions; mental what is shown, and how graphic a depiction that is. This allows
health care; support of older people; and work which will reduce learners to experience situations that would otherwise be very
hospital admissions. difficult to recreate in real life, which is vital in building confidence
As if our paramedic students weren’t already living life in the in their growing abilities.
fast lane, learning got a whole lot more exciting when QMU “As the students advance in their learning, VR can be used
enlisted the expertise of Viarama – Scotland’s first virtual reality to expose them to more complex and challenging situations.
social enterprise. Together, Viarama, and QMU’s impressive When the time is right, we can create a real hard core front line
paramedic teaching team, are creating a learning experience experience. It’s quite an exhilarating way to learn.”
for students which is second to none. Viarama is excited to be leading the VR experience at QMU.
Sona Mojzisova, Lecturer on the BSc Paramedic Science, has Billy said: “This forward-thinking and highly innovative approach
worked as a paramedic for eight years. She explained: “One taken by the University is setting the way for the future training
of the great things about virtual reality (VR) is that it can allow and education of Scotland’s new generation of paramedics.”
people to have experiences that otherwise would be impossible. Find out more about the BSc Paramedic Science at QMU
For paramedics, this means we can place students in situations at www.qmu.ac.uk/study-here/undergraduate-study/2021/
that would be dangerous in real life, and we can do that safely bsc-paramedic-science/ ❒
Fascinating facts about QMU’s paramedic teaching team
• P
aul Gaughan has been a Special Operations Response Team (SORT) Paramedic. This role includes various disciplines
including: (1) swift water rescue; (2) safe working at heights; (3) confined space working; and (4) multiple casualty and
major incident specific training.
• S
ona Mojzisova has experience as a working paramedic both in Slovakia and the UK. She is working towards a PhD
in public health and has a passion for simulation medicine – an area where she sees huge potential for research and
development.
• Billy Agnew runs Viarama, which is the world’s only virtual reality social enterprise.
20 QMYOU / Making a Difference in Healthcare QMYOU / Making a Difference in Healthcare 21You can also read
