Richmond Carers Centre is pleased to support Dr Megan Robb, a researcher in the Department of Social & Policy Sciences at the University of Bath, in promoting a new research pilot exploring the involvement of adults with learning disabilities and their carers in safeguarding enquiries.
About the study
Dr Robb is leading a study called “Involving People with Learning Disabilities in Safeguarding Enquiries: A Pilot Study”, running from April 2024 to September 2025, funded by the Avon & Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust. The project investigates how individuals with learning disabilities and their carers experience adult safeguarding processes led by social workers, and examines strategies to ensure meaningful involvement for both parties (University of Bath).
Who is being invited
The study seeks informal carers (family members or friends) of adults with learning disabilities who have supported the person they care for through an adult safeguarding enquiry.
What participation entails
- A one-hour interview conducted in-person, by phone or online
- A £20 gift voucher as a token of appreciation
- Ethical approval granted by the University of Bath’s Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee
- Opportunities for participants to request printed posters and pre-paid return envelopes for recruitment promotion (the University of Bath’s research portal)
Why this matters
Current policy emphasises participation of both people with learning disabilities and their carers in safeguarding decisions; however, research suggests many feel excluded in practice. Understanding carers’ lived experiences is essential for improving inclusive processes and informing future social work practice and policy (University of Bath).
How to participate
Carers who meet the criteria or organisations wishing to assist with recruitment can contact Dr Megan Robb directly:
- Dr Megan Robb, Department of Social & Policy Sciences, University of Bath
- Email: mlr40@bath.ac.uk
- Telephone: +44 (0)1225 385298
Carers’ lived experiences will contribute to improving the involvement of carers and adults with learning disabilities in safeguarding procedures across the sector.
Research flyer
