I'm Becky Higgins, an advocate, PhD candidate and researcher based in Sheffield/London, UK. I bring 5+ years of research experience, a decade of advocacy, and a track record of working with LGBTQ+ communities to improve physical and mental healthcare access. I thrive in collaborative, investigative roles that unearth hidden knowledge and turn findings into practical change. My work spans social history/heritage project management and community engagement; I enjoy developing training, digital resources, and narrative-driven approaches that drive policy impact. I am UKRI ESRC funded, currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Sheffield, and I freelance with clients across the third sector and academia, translating research into accessible, actionable outcomes.

Becky Higgins

I'm Becky Higgins, an advocate, PhD candidate and researcher based in Sheffield/London, UK. I bring 5+ years of research experience, a decade of advocacy, and a track record of working with LGBTQ+ communities to improve physical and mental healthcare access. I thrive in collaborative, investigative roles that unearth hidden knowledge and turn findings into practical change. My work spans social history/heritage project management and community engagement; I enjoy developing training, digital resources, and narrative-driven approaches that drive policy impact. I am UKRI ESRC funded, currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Sheffield, and I freelance with clients across the third sector and academia, translating research into accessible, actionable outcomes.

Experience Level

Intermediate

Language

English
Fluent
German
Beginner
Serbian
Beginner

Work Experience

Freelance Researcher, Self-employed
January 1, 2023 - Present
Conducting in-depth research and analysis for third-sector organisations and academia, including study design, survey development, online/in-person interviews, transcription, literature reviews, and creation of online materials. Clients include Transform Justice, LGBT HERO, Sheffield Hallam University, and the Centre for Mental Health Research (associate).
Community Development Officer at LGBT HERO
January 1, 2022 - December 31, 2023
Developed inclusive LGBT+ training to enhance community advocacy and awareness. Led the 'LGBT Health Heroes' project to foster safe discussions on sensitive issues and created web-based training with significant engagement and positive feedback. Translated research outcomes into actionable training programmes to improve awareness and support for LGBTQ+ communities.
GMFA Digital Archivist at LGBT HERO
January 1, 2021 - December 31, 2022
Sourced, curated and archived visual and audio materials for GMFA's 30-year legacy. Implemented digital preservation techniques, transforming static records into interactive resources and using archives to craft compelling fundraising narratives. Facilitated cross-department collaboration to align archival work with fundraising and community engagement goals.
Caseworker at INQUEST Charitable Trust
January 1, 2020 - December 31, 2021
Led immigration, university deaths, and trans mental health projects; provided legal guidance to bereaved families, securing representation and support. Coordinated with lawyers and public bodies to advance policy goals and strategic impact; developed media strategies with the Communications Officer to improve public engagement; innovated case management to increase efficiency and support for families.
Hate Crime Communications, Outreach and Engagement Officer at Galop
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2021
Led hate crime communications, enhancing stakeholder engagement and awareness. Implemented strategic communication plans, boosted community outreach, and monitored engagement to provide data-driven insights for reports. Coordinated research launches and chaired the Bi+ network to promote diversity and inclusion.
LGBT+ Hate Crime Independent Victims Advocate at Galop
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2020
Advocated for LGBT+ victims, improving support services and fostering partnerships. Analyzed complex cases to improve justice system understanding and service delivery; advised on LGBTQ+ needs to streamline processes for better victim accessibility; contributed to improved coordination across services.
Independent NHS and Health Advocate at POhWER
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2020
Supported diverse NHS clients, enhancing self-advocacy and understanding of healthcare rights. Built strategic partnerships with healthcare providers, conducted detailed assessments to identify core issues, and empowered clients through person-centered advocacy; led in-house LGBTQ+ client awareness training.

Education

PhD Sociological Studies at University of Sheffield
January 1, 2023 - January 23, 2026
MA Social Research at University of Sheffield
January 1, 2022 - December 31, 2023
MA Medical Humanities at Birkbeck College, University of London
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2019
MA Visual Sociology at Goldsmiths College, University of London
January 1, 2018 - December 31, 2019
City and Guilds Level 2 Independent Advocacy at Mind City, Hackney and Waltham Forest
January 1, 2008 - December 31, 2011
BA(Hons) Fine Art Painting at Wimbledon, University of the Arts London
January 1, 2008 - December 31, 2011

Qualifications

City and Guilds Level 2 Independent Advocacy
January 1, 2008 - December 31, 2011

Industry Experience

Non-Profit Organization, Healthcare, Education, Professional Services, Media & Entertainment, Government

Experience Level

Intermediate