Research Overview

Rachel's PhD (submission November 2025) investigated how political ideology shapes attitudes toward climate policy in English rural communities. Using quantitative methods and causal modelling, she investigated how political views affect support for a range of rural climate policies, as well as people’s support for, and intention to participate in, democratic innovations such as Citizens Assemblies.

Previously, Rachel was Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Planning at Cotswold District Council, and now provides training and strategic support to other local authorities via Climate Guide. Rachel was Head of Local and Community Empowerment at the Centre for Sustainable Energy, 2010 to 2021.