Background:
Project description:
Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) are provider-dependent contraceptives that are effective for an extended time period. NICE have actively encouraged service providers to promote LARC use, and contraception guidelines often cite the ‘benefits’ of LARC and its use among select populations. Yet uncritical, directive provision can compromise personal choices and reproductive rights. There is a long (international) history of using LARC to control the reproduction of stigmatised population groups, perpetuating classed, racialized, ageist, and ableist undercurrents about who is ‘fit to parent’. Recent research conducted by members of the supervisory team has exposed significant research and practice gaps about provision, when individuals are deemed to ‘lack capacity’ (e.g. learning-disabled people) or when capacity is considered compromised (e.g. post-abortion). Whilst a persons’ ‘capacity’ is acknowledged to fluctuate, relevant policies and protocols retain a static/uncritical approach, and the healthcare workforce - pressured by performance targets – are not adequately supported to respond. This context intensifies the requirement for LARC providers/commissioners to ensure contraception users experience just and equitable services in accordance with human rights to informed consent and non-discrimination, and that LARC provision does not reinforce stigmatisation and stratification based on discriminatory assumptions.
Aims and Objectives:
The overall aim of this PhD research project is to explore the complex domain of ‘capacity’ across diverse populations and contexts pertaining to the provision of LARC in the UK. The specific objectives are to:
1) Conduct original empirical research which shall explore the lived reality and negotiation of ‘capacity’ in provider/user dynamics of LARC provision.
2) Contribute to significant theoretical and/or methodological developments in health inequalities research and medical sociology, expanding theorisations of ‘capacity’ from typical biomedical or legal conceptualisations.
3) Produce academic and practice-based outputs (e.g. practice tools to support informed consent in LARC provision) to support contraceptive decision making.
This project is theoretically driven with a focus on ‘capacity’ as opposed to research with a specific population group or context although it is anticipated that individuals of relevance to the research could include people with learning disabilities, people with mental health challenges, people under the age of 16 or people dependent on drugs and/or alcohol. Given the focus on LARC users who are considered to have ‘compromised capacity’ it is anticipated that this PhD project shall adopt a participatory approach using creative and inclusive qualitative research methods. Cognisant of the marginalisation of people considered to have comprised capacity, co-design and collaboration shall be a core tenet of this PhD project, and it is expected that the successful applicant will involve relevant user group representatives in the design and delivery of the research.
How to apply:
Applicants should possess an honours degree (2:1 or above) and/or Masters degree in a related area of study, demonstrating sufficient evidence of academic/research ability.
Candidates are encouraged to contact the research supervisors for the project before applying.
Application process: Applications should be made in writing to the lead supervisor, Dr Alex Kaley ([Email Address Removed]). You MUST include the following
1. CV (max 2 A4 sides), including details of two academic references
2. A cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the studentship (max 2 A4 sides)