A researcher and writer, Wainwright is concerned with the emergence of new forms of democratic accountability within parties, movements and the state. She has documented examples of resurgent democratic movements in many countries around the world and the lessons they provide for progressive politics.[citation needed]
In July 2015, Wainwright endorsed Jeremy Corbyn's campaign in the Labour Party leadership election. She said: "To be honest, the Labour Party isn't worth that valuable three quid. But a platform for someone who not only insists that there is an alternative, but stretches himself to support everyone who is fighting for it, is beyond anything that money can buy." She added: "I believe Jeremy Corbyn should be supported not as an attempt to 'reclaim the Labour Party' but as a transition to a political organisation beyond the Labour Party and beyond parliamentary politics".[2][3]
In 1971, Wainwright married the British philosopher Roy Bhaskar.[5] The couple remained close lifelong friends after their separation and never divorced.[6] She received an Honorary DLitt from the University of Huddersfield on 28 November 2007, along with Martin Wainwright, for "services to journalism".[7]