Background:
The United Kingdom (UK) has one of the highest rates of stillbirth in Europe, with experience of stillbirth an extremely distressing event. In addition, the economic implications of stillbirth are significant, with a paucity of research that has explored the long-term impact of providing a ‘Compassionate Companion’ and its effects upon improving mental health outcomes in Scotland. For example, reducing the incidence of women developing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Complex-PTSD, Postnatal Depression (PND), Puerperal Psychosis, or attempting suicide post perinatal bereavement.
Project Description:
This exciting proposal will provide a registered midwife who is interested in the care of women who have experienced perinatal bereavement, the opportunity to undertake a full-time funded PhD over a three-year period. This research project will involve engaging with the Lothian based charity ‘Held in Our Hearts’ and will examine the innovative ‘Compassionate Companion’ Service they offer bereaved mothers, partners, and families through their experiences during and post perinatal bereavement following baby loss that occurred up to 24 weeks gestation. The project will involve a literature review, ethics application processes, data management protocols, performing qualitative interviews, and data analysis using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Completion of this research project is intended to develop greater understanding of the value and impact of the Compassionate Companion Service. It is anticipated that the project will generate at least one published research paper.
Applicants ideally will have a strong interest in the theme of this project and be motivated to contributed to research regarding perinatal bereavement.
The hands-on engagement with the Lothian based charity Held in Our Hearts requires the applicant to be based in Lothian region, Scotland. This project is not suitable for distance participation.
This is a full-time project and there is no part-time option.
Academic qualifications
A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in Midwifery and with evidence of post-graduate study. Also, an essential requirement is to be a midwife currently registered with the UK nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) with a good fundamental knowledge of perinatal bereavement care.
English language requirement
IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.
Essential attributes:
· Experience of fundamental clinical research, ideally in the area of childbirth and perinatal bereavement care
· Competent in computer skills and academic writing skills
· Knowledge of childbirth and perinatal bereavement care
· Good written and oral communication skills
· Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
· Good time management
Desirable attributes:
· Evidence of post-graduate study
Formal enquiries about this PhD project should be made to Prof Caroline J Hollins Martin at [Email Address Removed]. To apply please go to https://www.napier.ac.uk/research-and-innovation/research-degrees/application-process and follow the instructions.
APPLICATION CHECKLIST
· Completed application form
· CV
· 2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (Found on the application process page)
· A personal research statement (This should include (a) a brief description of your relevant experience and skills, (b) an indication of
· What you would uniquely bring to the project and (c) a statement of how this project fits with your future direction.)
· Evidence of proficiency in English (if appropriate)
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