Christine Burke, Senior Development Manager, Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities

Christine is the Senior Development Manager for the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities. Her role is to implement policy, undertake applied research and conduct consultancy work. This involves substantial work with statutory and independent agencies and individuals across the UK to help improve services and improve the quality of life for people with learning disabilities.

During the past few years, Christine has facilitated several service reviews and supported their strategic development. She has also developed leadership training programmes for people with learning disabilities and their families and has furthermore established methods to build inclusive communities.

Christine brings with her many years of experience and passionate commitment to the achievement of an inclusive community and human rights. She is committed to equal opportunities and culturally-sensitive service development.  She has worked closely with a variety of partnership agencies to improve existing provision and to develop new services. Christine also has a keen interest in person-centred planning and community inclusion.

Christine has supported people with learning disabilities for over 25 years in various roles. She has worked within senior management for voluntary organisations in research, teaching, training, policy and community development. Christine moved to the Foundation from Kings College, where she also worked as Senior Development Manager. Prior to this, as Deputy Chief Executive, she set up and managed a national organisation developing circles of support throughout the UK. She has also worked with the Government in Cyprus to develop their legislation and Disability council.

Academically, Christine has achieved a BA (Hons) in Psychology, a MSc in Child Psychology and is trained as a Psychotherapist. Christine’s most recent publications include: “We can Dream” (2009); “The Intentional Building of Community – Living Well” (2004); “Building Community One Person at a Time”; and “The Inclusion Assistant”. She is currently authoring “Building Inclusive Communities from the Inside”.

Christine is a mother and enjoys being an active member of her community.