A new study led by Dr Steve Taylor, a senior lecturer in Psychology at Leeds Beckett University, has looked at the different types of life purpose and how they relate to happiness. There are seven types of life purpose: No purpose a sense that life lacks direction, meaning, or an overarching goal Survival - focusing primarily on meeting basic needs such as food, shelter, safety and security Religious - finding direction through religious faith or another established framework of meaning Personal focused on pursuing wealth,career success, status or achievement Altruistic - focusing on helping others, reducing suffering or contributing positively to society Self-expansive - seeking personal growth, creativity, learning, fulfilment and the development of one's potential Transpersonal - experiencing purpose as something larger than the individual - something that seems to flow through a person rather than being consciously created by them. This type of purpose is often associated with a spiritual orientation. The most common types of purpose of those who took part were self-expansive and altruistic. People who reported they had no purpose and who were focused on survival were the least happy. Those with a transpersonal purpose were the happiest overall with women being more likely than men to be oriented around this type of purpose. Transpersonal purpose also became more common with age. In contrast, young people were more likely to identify with a personal-accumulative purpose which was focused on achievement. Older people were less oriented around a personal-accumulative purpose. Dr Steve Taylor said: The participants responses gave a powerful insight into how people experience purpose in different ways. This shows that the kind of purpose we hold not only shapes our happiness but also changes across our lives. Those who reported no sense of purpose tended to report substantially lower levels of happiness. Survival purpose was also strongly negatively associated with happiness. Transpersonal purpose was strongly associated with happiness. A self-expansive purpose was linked to happiness too, although to a lesser degree. In contrast, people with a personal-accumulative purpose - the pursuit of wealth, career success, status and achievement -reported a lower level of happiness. These findings are significant in that they contradict the standard cultural assumption that happiness stems from achievement, success and wealth. Our study found that a focus on self-development and a transpersonal purpose is much more likely to bring happiness. In other words, making accumulation and achievement the central organising purpose of life does not provide the same psychological benefits as growth, contribution or a sense of connection.
The 30-month Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), part-funded by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) through Innovate UK, will see LBU business and data science experts work with Ardent to develop an intelligent business system to improve operational efficiency, support growth, and enable data-driven decision-making. Ardent Limited is a specialist supplier of fire protection and electronic safety systems. The company designs, manufactures, supplies, installs and services its products in the UK and internationally. Dr Alfred Chinta, Head of Degree Apprenticeships in Leeds Business School and project leader, explained: Through the new KTP, we will support Ardents growth ambitions by developing and embedding an intelligent system to improve business operations, and enable data-driven decisions, greater efficiency and more sustainable performance. The system will optimise how Ardent delivers its services and manages its existing portfolio, while lowering operational emissions. This capability is expected to increase productivity and net profit margins, and to support international expansion by leveraging data and existing resources. This is the second KTP between LBU and Ardent the first project was completed in 2025 and embedded a new international marketing strategy and corporate culture into Ardent. The project was awarded the highest possible grading of Outstanding from Innovate UK, and KTP Associate, Stephanie Leung, has now been made a permanent member of the Ardent team, continuing to embed and progress the KTP legacy. Matt Lewindon, Managing Director of Ardent Limited, said: Following the success of our first KTP, we're delighted to be continuing our partnership with Leeds Beckett University. This project supports an important part of Ardent's growth strategy, helping us explore new ways to improve efficiency and build greater scalability into our operations. Knowledge Transfer Partnerships provide a unique opportunity to combine academic expertise with real-world business challenges. We're excited to work with the Leeds Beckett team to embed new knowledge and capabilities within Ardent, strengthening our business for the future and supporting continued innovation across the manufacturing sector. An experienced graduate will be recruited to manage the project as a KTP Associate. The role, Business Systems Lead, will be a full-time member of the Ardent team, with full support of the LBU academics. For more information and to apply for the role, please visit the LBU Jobs website. The closing date for applications is Wednesday 23 September 2026. The full LBU KTP team consists of: Dr Alfred Chinta, Course Director in Leeds Business School; Dr Adekunle Oke, Senior Lecturer in Operations and Supply Chain Management, Leeds Business School; Dr Farrukh Saleem, Senior Lecturer in AI and Data Science in the School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing.
Carried out ahead of this year's A-Level Results Day, the national research conducted with 500 senior employers by Opinion Matters and Leeds Beckett University found that 77% believe recruiting university graduates will be essential as part of their future workforce strategy. The findings also highlight the long-term value employers place on graduates. Nearly nine in ten (87%) said graduates are helping their organisations tackle skills shortages, while seven in ten (71%) believe graduates deliver greater value in the workplace than non-graduates entering similar roles. Beyond technical knowledge, employers say graduates are valued for the versatile skills they bring into the workplace. Almost half (47%) identified problem-solving as the most valuable skill graduates offer, while nearly a third (29%) said transferable skills such as communication, teamwork and adaptability are what they value most. More than a third (38%) also said graduates' ability to learn quickly gives them an advantage over other applicants, while the same proportion highlighted digital skills as a key strength. While subject knowledge remains important, employers are increasingly looking beyond academic achievement alone. Nine in ten (90%) employers said a graduate's degree subject is important when recruiting for graduate-level roles, although fewer than one in five (18%) said it is extremely important. The research also found that 38% of employers value creativity as a graduate attribute, suggesting businesses are increasingly seeking candidates who can bring fresh thinking to a rapidly changing workplace. Practical experience also remains a key factor in graduate employability. More than nine in ten employers (93%) said work placements or industry experience completed during university are important or essential when recruiting graduates, reinforcing the value of degree programmes that combine academic learning with real-world experience. With A-Level Results Day just around the corner, the research offers insight into the decisions many students will soon be making. From considering university to exploring opportunities through Clearing, the findings paint a picture of a labour market that continues to place significant value on graduates, particularly those who can demonstrate the wider skills and practical experience employers increasingly demand. Commenting on the research, Professor Peter Slee, Vice-Chancellor at Leeds Beckett University, said: "As students prepare to receive their A-Level results and consider their next steps, it's important they understand what employers are looking for and the opportunities available to them. "Whether students secure their first-choice university, explore alternative options through Clearing, or are still weighing up different pathways, this research shows that employers continue to place significant value on graduates and the skills developed through higher education. "Businesses are telling us they need people who can solve problems, think critically, adapt to change and continue learning throughout their careers. These are exactly the kinds of capabilities that universities help students develop alongside subject knowledge and industry experience." One organisation seeing the benefits of graduate talent first-hand is Leeds Rhinos, where Leeds Beckett alumni form an important part of the workforce, bringing valuable skills and experience to roles across the club. Rob Oates, Managing Director at Leeds Rhinos, said: "Graduates play an important role across our organisation, bringing strong problem-solving skills, adaptability and a willingness to learn. In a fast-paced environment like professional sport, these qualities are invaluable, helping us address skills needs across the business. Our close relationship with Leeds Beckett University continues to provide us with talented individuals who make a real difference on and off the field."
The UKCGE Research Supervision Recognition Programme provides national, peer-reviewed accreditation that recognises the skills, experience, and reflective practice of supervisors across the UK and beyond. Two levels of recognition are available: the Recognised Associate Supervisor Award, designed for those in the early stages of their supervisory journey, and the Recognised Supervisor Award, which recognises experienced supervisors who have demonstrated sustained and effective practice. Five researchers have received the award during the latest application round this summer: Recognised Supervisor Award Professor Susan Backhouse, Carnegie School of Sport Dr Anup Chowdhury, Leeds Business School Dr Kavyta Kay Raghunandan, Carnegie School of Education Professor Sharon Vincent, School of Health Recognised Associate Supervisor Award Dr Oleg Illiashenko, School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing Dr Anup Chowdhury, Senior Lecturer in Finance and Research Lead for the Accounting and Finance Subject Group, said: "Applying for the UKCGE Research Supervision Recognition was a transformative experience that allowed me to step back and critically examine my supervisory practice. Like many in academia, I often found myself racing from one milestone to the next, but this application process compelled me to thoughtfully consider how my approach to supervision has matured through my work with doctoral researchers, collaborations with co-supervisors, and the invaluable lessons learned from each unique research journey. The reflective writing process, alongside invaluable feedback from colleagues and former doctoral students, illuminated both the strengths and the areas for growth in my supervisory practice. It reaffirmed my conviction that effective supervision transcends mere thesis completion; it entails cultivating an inclusive and supportive environment that empowers doctoral researchers to evolve into confident, independent scholars. I wholeheartedly encourage my colleagues, at any stage of their careers, to pursue this recognition. The journey itself serves as a profound form of professional development, prompting deep reflection on our practices and their far-reaching impacts within our research communities. While receiving this recognition was a moment of pride, the true reward lies in the opportunity to continually enhance the doctoral experience for our students, a mission that remains invaluable in the evolving landscape of academic mentorship." Dr Oleg Illiashenko, Senior Lecturer in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics, said: Receiving the UKCGE Recognised Associate Supervisor Award is an important recognition of my commitment to thoughtful, rigorous and student-centred research supervision. My career combines academia, industrial Research and Development, project leadership and standardisation in cyber security and safety-critical systems. I bring these perspectives to supervision by connecting scholarly rigour with real-world challenges and practical impact. The award reinforces my responsibility to helping research students become confident, independent researchers. It also reflects Leeds Beckett Universitys wider commitment to high-quality supervision, a strong research culture and research with practical relevance. Dr Sharon Vincent, Professor of Social Work, added: I would encourage new and experienced doctoral supervisors to engage with this process as it is important for all supervisors to reflect upon and strive to improve their supervisory practice. The UKCGE Good Supervisory Practice Framework is such a helpful tool. Thinking about the different domains allowed me to critically reflect on the various actions I have taken to recruit and support doctoral candidates. Reading the supporting literature around effective supervision was particularly beneficial. I was able to identify so many new ideas which I plan to take forward. Further details about the scheme, award criteria and information on future application rounds can be found on the UKCGE Research Supervision Recognition Programme website. Leeds Beckett University has supported applications through a centrally funded scheme during 2025/26. We are currently awaiting confirmation of arrangements for 2026/27 and hope to provide an update in early September. In the meantime, colleagues interested in applying or with any questions are welcome to contact researcherdevelopment@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Delivered throughout the 2025/26 academic year, the programme included online writing mornings, one-day retreats in different formats and a four-day residential retreat for those in the final stages of thesis writing. Developed in response to feedback from the Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES) and wider engagement with the PGR community, the programme was supported through the university's Enhancing Research Culture Fund. It offered structured opportunities for researchers at different stages of their journey to step away from competing demands and focus on their writing. Across the year, retreats were facilitated by Professor Louise Warwick-Booth, Dr Steven Gerrard and Dr Madeleine Castro, each bringing their own experience and approach to creating supportive, productive writing environments. Participants used the retreats to make progress on thesis chapters, articles, conference papers and other writing projects. However, the value of the programme extended beyond dedicated writing time. For many PGRs, one of the most valuable aspects was the opportunity to work alongside researchers from different disciplines, schools and areas of study. The retreats created space for participants to share experiences, discuss challenges, exchange ideas and build relationships across the university. Reflecting on the experience, one participant said: "Being in a setting where everyone had similar goals, even though our areas of research were different, was refreshing and a great opportunity to exchange ideas." The programme concluded with a four-day residential writing retreat, bringing together ten doctoral researchers nearing completion. The retreat gave participants the opportunity to step away from everyday responsibilities and focus entirely on their writing, while benefiting from the encouragement and support of peers at a similar stage in their research journey. Reflecting on the residential retreat, Dr Steven Gerrard said: "This was our second residential writing retreat as part of the programme, and it was a tremendous one. The students were really into cracking on with their work, and all were clearly enthused by their chance to be not just working on their theses, but also to feel part of a community. I am in genuine awe of these students, and they are all so near to completing their studies and then the viva examination to follow. I hope to celebrate them all becoming doctors soon." The retreats form part of Leeds Beckett's wider work to support postgraduate researchers and strengthen the research environment across the university. They recognise that doctoral research can often feel like a solitary endeavour, but progress is often helped by connection, conversation and a sense of belonging. Feedback from this years programme highlighted the value of giving PGRs room to think, share ideas, build confidence and feel part of a wider research community.
Playing at altitude in Mexico City's Azteca Stadium against a side that had lost just two of their previous 89 competitive internationals, England's task became even more difficult when Jarell Quansah was sent off. Yet rather than allowing the circumstances to overwhelm them, England responded with discipline, composure and belief. Dr Gareth Jowett, senior lecturer in Carnegie School of Sport, explains the psychology behind this: "The performance highlighted key principles of elite performance psychology. Instead of dwelling on factors they could not control, such as the altitude, hostile crowd or numerical disadvantage, England focused on their organisation, work rate and decision-making. By accepting the challenge rather than viewing it as a threat, they found solutions under intense pressure. "Jude Bellingham epitomised that mentality. After previous disappointment over his role under Thomas Tuchel, the midfielder responded with two goals and an outstanding all-round display, demonstrating the psychological flexibility to put setbacks behind him and focus entirely on the task at hand." While one victory guarantees nothing in tournament football, England's triumph over Mexico has provided the squad with something invaluable: proof that they can overcome adversity on one of the biggest stages. That belief could become one of their greatest strengths as the World Cup progresses.
Researchers from universities, including Dr Daniel Snape from Leeds Beckett University, have analysed the weather and altitude conditions for every group-stage match. Key findings include: Around one-third of matches could be played in very hot conditions France, Uruguay and Czechia are expected to face the toughest combination of heat and altitude England avoids the most challenging conditions, although temperatures are still expected to rise during the tournament Scotland could experience one of the biggest increases in temperatures between matches Heat and altitude conditions can affect sprinting and physical performances, recovery between matches, decision-making and concentration, and the overall match intensity. Dr Daniel Snape is a Research Fellow in Sport and Exercise Physiology in Leeds Becketts Carnegie School of Sport. He says more should be done to help teams prepare: "Our research shows that environmental factors such as heat and altitude should be considered a fundamental part of tournament preparation, alongside technical, tactical and physical readiness. As major competitions are increasingly staged in challenging climates, teams that plan effectively for these conditions may gain a significant advantage. "The impact extends beyond the players on the pitch. Match officials are also affected, with high temperatures known to influence concentration and decision-making. Ensuring everyone involved is properly prepared will be an important consideration for future tournaments." England will avoid the severe combination of heat and altitude that some other nations will face with Turkey, Australia and New Zealand also faring better. Columbia faces the biggest increase in temperatures across its group games, Mexico will play at the highest altitude, and Group E is expected to be the hottest group. The research was led by Dr Daniel Snape at Leeds Beckett and Dr Chris Tyler at Roehampton University, in collaboration with the University of Chichester and the University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia. Hardest vs Easiest Group-Stage Conditions Hardest: Uruguay Highest combined heat and altitude burden. Hottest median WBGT (27C) and final fixture at altitude in Guadalajara. France Faces the highest projected maximum temperatures (27.7C). Top two ranking for expected thermal stress Czechia The only nation required to play a fixture at altitude either side of sea-level. Little existing altitude adaptation among the squad. Colombia Largest total increase (12C) between fixtures. Uzbekistan Largest increase between single fixtures (+8C). Also faces games at altitude. Easiest: Trkiye Trkiye has the least thermally stressful draw, with the lowest projected median and maximum WBGT. Australia Bottom ten ranks for all temperature variables and elevation. New Zealand Bottom ten ranks for all temperature variables and for elevation. Jordan The greatest within-group advantage, playing their group fixtures at lower expected median and maximum temperatures than other nations in the group. Paraguay Bottom ten for temperature and altitude exposure, so has the most favourable draws from a combined environmental stress perspective.
Although being a fan can help people build friendships, feel part of a community, improve wellbeing and develop a sense of identity, very little research has looked at potential benefits for people with a learning disability. The team will review all existing studies on the topic to find out: What is already known about fandom and learning disability How fandom might improve wellbeing, social connections and quality of life Where there are gaps in the research What future studies should focus on Dr Kris Southby, Assistant Director for the Centre for Health Promotion Research at Leeds Beckett University, said: The project aims to help organisations and service providers better support leisure and social opportunities for people with a learning disability, who often face barriers to taking part in activities and can experience social isolation. Funded by the Bailey Thomas Charitable Fund, the 12-week project is a collaboration between Leeds Beckett University, the University Campus of Football Business and the University of Cologne. The findings will be shared with researchers, service providers, people with a learning disability and their families, and will help shape future research and support services.
Current findings from a comprehensive evaluation of Complications of Excess Weight (CEW) services - undertaken by Leeds Beckett University, Sheffield Hallam University, University of Leeds, University of Bristol and University of Sheffield - are presented this week at the European Congress on Obesity (EASO). It found that the thousands of children and young people who receive multi-disciplinary support through CEW clinics maintain more weight loss over time, in comparison to patients who can only access support through separate community and general practice services. The clinics were also successful in reaching children and young people attending CEW services from seldom-heard groups, such as those from more socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. CEW clinics bring together specialist NHS doctors, nurses, psychologists, social workers, family support workers and dietitians to provide the tailored treatment needed by children and young people struggling from complications related to excess weight. This can include support with diet and lifestyle changes and to improve their mental health, access to specialist medication and addressing health complications related to obesity. Professor Louisa Ells, co-lead for ENHANCE from the School of Health at Leeds Beckett University, said: "Our study provides important data to show that CEW services are improving the health of children and young people living with severe obesity and related health conditions. "CEW services are providing compassionate, joined up, patient-centred specialist care that is tailored to the needs of children, young people and their families. This holistic, non-stigmatising approach is key to supporting all patients, including those who are underrepresented in other obesity services, which is critical to addressing the health inequalities associated with obesity." Dr Cath Homer, Associate Professor in Obesity and Public Health at Sheffield Hallam University and co-lead of the ENHANCE study, said: "Severe childhood obesity remains a major public health challenge in England, affecting approximately 15% of children aged between 2 and 15. Living with severe obesity during childhood and adolescence carries the risk that it will persist into adulthood, which would lead to an increased risk of many other serious health issues, including early onset cardiometabolic, respiratory, neurological and psychosocial problems, reducing people's quality of life and life expectancy. "The increasing prevalence of severe obesity and its complications amongst children and young people is fuelling rising demand for specialist support and treatment that goes beyond traditional community-based weight management services, and our research suggests that CEW services are an effective way to support patients for better health and weight management." Ibbie, a CEW service user, said: "The CEW clinic not only changed my life, but also completely changed the way I see myself and my future. When I first came to the clinic, I was in a very negative place and terrified of being judged for my weight and appearance. Instead, I was met with kindness, understanding and support. "The team took every aspect of my wellbeing into account, including my mental health and supported me every step of the way. Thanks to their support, guidance and care, I have now lost seven stone. I truly couldn't have achieved this without them, and I will always be grateful for everything they have done for me!" Since being piloted by the NHS in selected areas since 2021, over 6,000 children and young people in England have received treatment through CEW clinics. The research team says the evidence supports the clinical need for national access to this kind of multidisciplinary service as the most effective way to help children and young people develop the behaviours that will help them lose weight and reduce the likelihood that they will go on to develop complications from excess weight in the future. Professor Julian Hamilton-Shield, from the University of Bristol, said: "When the new CEW clinics were first announced, some questioned whether they might increase health inequalities. Our evidence is quite the reverse, demonstrating remarkable reach within those underserved communities typically less inclined to access NHS services, such as ethnic minorities, those with the most material deprivation and the neurodiverse." Professor Simon Kenny, NHS England's National Clinical Director for Children and Young People, said: "This research demonstrates the positive impact NHS CEW clinics are having for children and young people with severe obesity, while also highlighting the challenges these individuals face. The NHS is committed to providing early support to help limit excess weight gain and prevent associated long-term health complications for people affected by obesity." The ENHANCE evaluation is part of NIHR-funded project looking at best practice in CEW clinics, through speaking to those accessing and delivering the service, to outline ways they can be improved for patients and their families. It is evaluating outcomes of patients attending the clinics, patient demographics, treatment and support offered, patient experiences and cost-effectiveness. Current findings from the project include: Patients at CEW clinics are supported to maintain more weight loss over time, when compared to patients who can only access support through separate primary care services CEW services are reaching children who are typically underserved by existing weight management services. Over half of patients attending clinics had highly complex medical complications and neurodevelopmental needs, many of which benefitted from early weight loss intervention. The clinics also work with more children and young people from minority ethnic groups and more deprived socioeconomic areas, suggesting that they can provide support for patients from more seldom-heard groups Research suggests that the use of specialist weight loss medication, known as GLP1s, are effective for significant weight loss in adolescents when offered as part of a specialist multidisciplinary treatment plan offered by CEW services CEW services show the need for patient support from multi-disciplinary teams, with ongoing and tailored patient-centred care being instrumental for children, young people and their families
The recognition highlights the significant commercial impact, innovation, and long term growth and sustainability delivered through the universitys research expertise and close collaboration with its industry partners in the region and beyond. Jo Griffiths, Head of KTP at Leeds Beckett, explained: "The Knowledge Transfer Partnerships have brought exceptional expertise, innovative new ways of working, and lasting impact to Sniffers and Ardent. KTPs are a unique and powerful partnership which brings together academic experts, a company wanting to grow sustainably and innovate in their field, and a skilled KTP Associate recruited to carry out the project as a full-time member of the company. "At LBU we are in the top 10 universities in the country for the size of our KTP programme. Our team is dedicated to creating true partnerships with the businesses we work with, which extend beyond the life of the project and into further programmes of support and opportunities across the university and our talented students and academic experts. Both of the KTP Associates for Sniffers and Ardent are graduates of LBU." The highlights of the Sniffers project achievements include: Launching new natural pet treat brand NAW into mainstream retailers including Sainsbury's and Morrisons Creating a base of brand advocates for NAW leading to a returning customer rate of more than 60% Introducing a new trade website, achieving a 31% increase in orders
The two-year project is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), part-funded by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) through Innovate UK, and is led by Dr Catherine Ashworth, Senior Lecturer in Global and Strategic Marketing in Leeds Business School. Dr Ashworth explained:"Specialised Covers are an ambitious company with a strong reputation in the UK textiles industry, designing and manufacturing British-made protective covers for vehicles, caravans, defence, motorsport and garden equipment. "The KTP aims to accelerate the companys growth and resilience through introducing strategic marketing and AI-driven tools, expanding into new international markets, diversifying product offerings across market sectors, and creating a culture change across the organisation to encourage sharing of knowledge and expertise between colleagues."
The project is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), part-funded by Innovate UK. In the first six months of the KTP, the team has created: New branding and labelling throughout the business Brand new Instagram and TikTok accounts, and a refreshed Facebook account A suite of video reels to build strong social media engagement 'Too Good to Go': surprise bags that support Haighs' core sustainability principles and reduce food waste A new low-carb range - including bread, biscuits and desserts - have been developed, test marketed and are starting to be launched to new customers A unique Master Baker Experience, providing a new innovation service to 'test bake' new products for other companies To drive change within Haighs Bakery and manage the running of the KTP, LBU recruited Leeds Beckett BA (Hons) Business Management with Marketing graduate, Katie Johnson, to the role of Strategic and Digital Marketing Lead. Dr Catherine Ashworth, Academic Lead on the KTP, said: "In only six months the KTP has already brought significant value and impact to Haighs. Katie is doing a fantastic job as KTP Associate - the new Too Good to Go surprise bags are consistently selling out, and the new low-carb thins bread sold out within a week and has already achieved five-star customer reviews."