Freelance Historical Researcher & Heritage Consultant

I am a heritage professional and researcher with a passion for uncovering overlooked histories and making them accessible to wider audiences. My work combines archival research, interpretation, and community engagement, often focusing on disability history and the stories of marginalised groups.
I currently manage A Legacy of Care: 170 Years at the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability, a National Lottery Heritage Fund project that brings together archival research, oral history, and creative collaboration with patients, staff, and volunteers. Alongside this, I am a Research Fellow with History UK, exploring disabled staff and student experiences in university history departments.
I completed my PhD at Kingston University in 2023, where my multidisciplinary, archives-based research examined the early history of Normansfield Hospital and the heritage of people with a learning disability. My work produced both academic and creative outcomes, including a thesis, exhibition design, and digital interpretation projects.
As a freelance researcher and heritage consultant, I work across archives, museums, and community projects. I am especially interested in co-production, inclusive practice, and finding new ways to connect people with the past.
If you’d like to know more about my work or explore possible collaborations, I’d love to hear from you: drsarahehayward [at] gmail.com