An exploration of the impact of co-production and co-delivery of wellness and recovery education on students and communities. (PHDHNM016)

“Living networks of conversation lie at the heart of our capacity as a human community to
create the futures we want rather than being forced to live with the futures we get”.
–Juanita Brown

This PhD would explore the impact of co-production and co-delivery of wellness and recovery education on students and communities.

Wellness and recovery education courses have demonstrated efficacy across a range of settings including chronic physical health conditions (Foster et al, 2009) and mental health (Levitt et al, 2009).
Supported by key documents (For example, COSLA, Scottish Government and NHS Scotland, 2011; The Health Foundation, 2012), co-production can enhance recovery and wellness in individuals by:
• Encouraging individuals to “find their own solutions and embrace distress as a part of ordinary life” (Perkins, 2013).
• Assisting individuals to have “control over the support they need to make the most of their talents and lives” (Perkins, 2013).
• Promoting an educational and coaching model in supporting people to become experts in self-care on their wellness and recovery journey
• Breaking down barriers between ‘us’ and ‘them’ by offering training sessions run by people with experience of health challenges and people with professional experience.
• Promoting an educational and coaching model in supporting individuals to become experts in managing their own wellness

The aim of this thesis could potentially include the following:

1. To seek to explore the impact of co-production and co-delivery of wellness and recovery education on students and communities.
2. To identify how the above knowledge informs practice, education, policy and research
The student will work with a range of stakeholders including students, education staff and the wider community. Theoretical influences embrace both participation and learning models. Influences include social constructionist and participatory development theories.
Research methods will include participatory approaches using techniques congruent with co-production and co-delivery (for example, appreciative action research, strengths-based approaches).

Applications are invited from enthusiastic individuals with relevant qualification (For example, masters degree and/or honours degree in Nursing).


For more information about this exciting opportunity please contact:

Dr Glenn Marland – [Email Address Removed] or 01387 345819
Or
Marie McCaig –[Email Address Removed] 01387 345822

Funding Notes

UWS is an inspiring, vibrant place to study with a growing research community; an important aspect of which is its outstanding and committed research students.

Successful candidates will receive an £8000 annual stipend payable for three years.

This studentship is open to Home/EU candidates with a first degree in a relevant discipline. Non-EU students can apply, but will not receive the stipend and will be required to pay fees.

Candidates must be available to commence their studies in February 2014.


Closing date 18th December 2013

Interview date 10th January 2014