Three early careers researchers in SPS have won research grants from the National Institute for Health Research, School for Social Care Research (NIHR SSCR). Each award allows the researcher to lead and manage the research in a Principal Investigator role with support from a senior mentor. The awards are in part an attempt to boost overall capacity and career development in adult social care research but also in recognition of the precarity facing early career researchers. The studies are:

Dr Alex Vickery who will explore older men’s mental health and use of community mental wellbeing support groups. Alex said:

“I’m thrilled to have this NIHR SSCR grant to develop my research interests as an early-career researcher. I’m looking forward to getting started with the research and excited about the opportunity to gain experience as a Principal Investigator, further develop my career and to be given the chance to support older men experiencing mental health difficulties.”

Dr Jill Powell will research the role of social network analysis in identifying unmet support needs for families supporting an adult with a learning disability within family homes. Jill said:

“I’m excited to be afforded the opportunity and support to pursue my research interests in the role of PI and be given the chance to contribute knowledge to adult social care with the aim of informing practice and support to family carers and adults with learning disabilities.”

Dr Eleanor Johnson will explore the changing provision of direct care for older people in residential and home care settings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eleanor said:

“I’m really excited about the prospect of pursuing my personal and professional interests, to gain valuable experience as a Principal Investigator, and to develop my career further within the School for Policy Studies, whilst also improving the experience of caregiving for care workers and older people receiving care.” 

Prof. David Abbott who is an Associate Director for NIHR SSCR and leads on the Bristol portfolio of research said:

“I am delighted that we can support early career researchers in this way and, with support, help them experience all the highs and lows of being a PI. Each of the studies has an important and relevant focus to adult social care and I look forward to finding out more as the projects progress.”