Dr Dillon has undertaken knowledge exchange and impact studies within the South Yorkshire and Greater Manchester regions, focusing on the theoretical, legal and policy requirements of social workers regarding participation, with a particular focus on ‘wishes and feelings’. Social work practitioners, child protection chairs, IROs and advocates are encouraged to reflect on the barriers and enablers to meaningful participation in child and family social work, focusing on an iterative cycle (Dr Dillon's 'Revolutionising Participation' model, 2019) that the child is an important part of.
One of the principles of participation emphasised throughout her research is that children have the right to a creative life, and the ability to express their wishes and feelings in the manner they choose. Most recently, she has undertaken an associate role with Research in Practice, publishing a Practice Tool for creative participation in child and family social work and leading many workshops, webinars and seminars for social work practitioners throughout the UK.