Heather Aldersey



Canada Research Chair in Disability-Inclusive Development

Tier 2 - 2018-10-01
Renewed: 2024-09-01
Queen's University
Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council

613-533-6088
hma@queensu.ca

Research involves


Developing and evaluating supports for families who have lived experience with disability, with a focus on low- and middle-income families.

Research relevance


This research will lead to better supports for people with disabilities and their families, ultimately improving functioning, reducing social isolation, and enhancing quality of life.

Research summary


In adopting the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, Canada recognized that to eliminate global poverty and inequality, we must support the human rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. Dr. Heather Aldersey, Canada Research Chair in Disability Inclusive Development, is trying to uncover strategies and services that will empower, develop, educate and integrate people with disabilities.

She and her research team are developing supports for people with disabilities and their families in Ethiopia. They are also exploring—through research in seven countries—how formal disability-related services might best be balanced with “natural” supports from communities. Aldersey’s team aims to collaborate with community advocates and policy-makers to ensure the work influences local, national and international practice and policy. Ultimately, their goal is to enable people with disabilities and their families to participate fully in their communities and enjoy the best possible quality of life.