Combatting social isolation experienced by formerly homeless people

Project Ref: JWS2023-SJ2

Many formerly homeless people report experiencing social isolation and/or loneliness after they have been provided with settled housing. This not only affects their quality of life detrimentally but can also increase their susceptibility to repeat homelessness. In some cases it appears to contribute to continued or re-engagement with ‘street culture’ activities such as begging or street drinking. Very little research has been done on either the reasons underpinning this issue or the nature and effectiveness of initiatives aiming to redress it. This PhD will seek to further develop understanding of the reasons underpinning experience of social isolation and/or loneliness amongst formerly homeless people, and explore what can be learned from interventions in this area targeting one or more subpopulations (e.g. families, young people, people with complex needs etc.).

Eligibility

This scholarship is available to Home and Overseas students. The successful candidate will be based on campus in Edinburgh.

To be eligible, applicants should have a first-class honours degree in a relevant subject or a 2.1 honours degree plus Masters (or equivalent experience. Scholarships will be awarded by competitive merit, taking into account the academic ability of the applicant.

We recognise that not every talented researcher will have had the same opportunities to advance their careers. We therefore will account for any particular circumstances that applicants disclose (e.g. parental leave, caring duties, part-time jobs to support studies, disabilities etc.) to ensure an inclusive and fair recruitment process.   

How to apply

To apply you must complete our online application form.

Please select PhD Urban Studies as the programme and include the full project title, reference number (JWS2023-SJ2) and supervisor name on your application form. You will also need to provide a CV, a supporting statement (1-5 A4 pages) outlining your suitability and how you would approach the project, a copy of your degree certificate(s) and relevant transcripts and an academic reference.

You must also provide proof of your ability in the English language (if English is not your mother tongue or if you have not already completed a degree that was taught in English within the last 2 years). We require an IELTS certificate showing an overall score of at least 6.5 with no component scoring less than 6.0 or a TOEFL certificate with a minimum score of 90 points.

Please address informal questions to Professor Sarah Johnsen (s.[Email Address Removed])

If you have any general queries about the applications process, please contact [Email Address Removed]

Timeline

The closing date for applications is 17^th April 2023 and applicants must be available to start in September 2023.