Dr Lisa Oakley is programme leader for the only undergraduate course in Abuse Studies in the UK based at Manchester Metropolitan University. Her research is principally in the area of Spiritual abuse in the Christian faith. Her doctorate was awarded in 2009, the title of the thesis was ‘The experience of spiritual abuse in the Christian faith in the UK’. Since this time, Lisa has continued to conduct research into this area.

In 2013 Lisa co-authored a book entitled ‘Breaking the Silence on Spiritual Abuse’ this was published by MacMillan and is the first book based on empirical research on this topic in the UK. Lisa has spoken extensively on the topic of spiritual abuse across the UK at national and international conferences.

Lisa has taught in Higher Education for 20 years. Recently Lisa co-led an independent learning review with Justin Humphreys the findings from this are currently informing practice and policy around vulnerable adults in faith based contexts.