PhD Working title: Negotiating Equality: Participatory Development and the role of Self-Help Groups in the Empowerment of Poor Women in Kerala, IndiaMy focus is on women’s empowerment through participation in self-help groups (SHG) and microfinance schemes. My thesis aims to critique concepts of ‘empowerment’ within the context of Development by examining other forms of power utilised by poor women in their everyday lives. This research also addresses issues of best-practice, and the material and empowerment outcomes of these participatory development schemes.  The research involves both library-based and internet searches, developing a document analysis and critical literature review. Extensive periods of fieldwork over the last five years have enabled me to generate data using innovative research methods. Alongside more traditional interview, questionnaire and focus group work, I have been developing a range of participatory research techniques, encouraging research participants to create their own diagrams/drawings that illustrate important issues in their lives. This fieldwork experience required extensive negotiations and networking to gain access to and the trust of key individuals. A high degree of organisation was essential in bringing groups together for interviews, all within a cultural environment distinct from my own.  I have given presentations on my research both within my department and at other universities, and presented a paper at the University of Brighton which went on to become part of an edited book.