It is widely recognised that people with lived experience of mental disability should be involved in research that impacts on their lives. The term ‘mental disability’ is used here to mean mental illness, learning disability, autism, dementia and personality disorder. There are well-founded concerns about use of the term ‘disability’. The reference to this here is only from a human rights perspective in terms of the state or society disabling a person and does not relate to a person’s condition itself.
However, when including persons with mental disabilities there are complex ethical, practical and legal/rights considerations to take into account. Persons with mental disabilities are commonly seen as ‘vulnerable’ leading to their voices being inadvertently silenced within research. This can be the result of perceptions of mental capacity and capabilities and the over-protective role played by gatekeeping bodies such as research ethics committees, care services, and charities. At the same time, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) requires that where there are impediments to full and effective participation in society, the person concerned should receive effective support (e.g. supported decision-making, universal design and reasonable accommodation) to participate, rather than being disenfranchised on the basis of perceived incapacity (Articles 2 and 12 CRPD).
Currently, we do not know to what extent such support is available within research in order to include persons with mental disabilities. The objective of the project is therefore to adopt an interdisciplinary approach to identifying barriers to the meaningful participation of persons with mental disabilities in research, and to develop a model that can guide researchers on how to address these barriers. This is vital if there is to be a robust research evidence base underpinning policy, practice and law in the field of mental disability.
This PhD research will be supervised by an experienced multidisciplinary team comprising Professor Jill Stavert, Associate Professor Dr Jill Davey and Dr Jessica MacLaren who collectively bring a legal, social work and nursing perspective to supervision of the project.
Academic qualifications
A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in social work, nursing, psychology or law with a good fundamental knowledge of mental disability and human rights.
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 statistics
· Competent in MS Office Suite
· Knowledge of mental disability and human rights
· Good written and oral communication skills
· Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
· Good time management
Desirable attributes:
Masters degree with research methods modules
Previous experience with publication or preparing reports
Demonstrable interest in lived experience research
Experience in analysis of quantitative data using statistical software or
Experience in analysis of qualitative data using NVIVO (or similar)
TO APPLY PLEASE CLICK ON THE 'INSTITUTION WEBSITE' LINK ON THE RIGHT HAND SIDE OF THIS PAGE.
When applying, please quote the application reference SHSC0047 on your form.
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)