Sadie Rockliffe

Sadie Rockliffe is an ESRC SCDTP-funded PhD student, whose research interests lie within the themes of wellbeing and therapeutic landscapes; placemaking and custodianship; and the importance of accessibility and inclusivity within blue space engagement.

Sadie’s PhD will focus on the lived experiences of people with sensory impairments (visual/auditory) in relation to blue space wellbeing and engagement (including outdoor swimming).

Outdoor swimming is a social practice that currently displays very normative qualities around race, social class and ableness. This project attempts to increase the breadth and inclusivity of this social practice in blue space. The project will explore the health and wellbeing benefits (and barriers to engagement) of a specifically excluded section of the population - those with sensory impairments. Co-created outputs will share new knowledge, offering scope to increase accessibility and inclusion.

Before arriving at the University of Brighton, Sadie spent over 20 years working with governing bodies and local communities to build inclusive accessible events and destination management strategies.

Sadie is currently an HPL on a range of undergraduate and postgraduate tourism modules, including Critical Perspectives in Tourism (PG), Global Issues in Travel and Tourism (UG) and Resort and Destination Management (UG).