Research opportunity for carers: “Holding All” project at the London School of Economics
Unpaid carers’ experiences and wellbeing are the focus of a new research project from the Care Policy and Evaluation Centre at the London School of Economics and Political Science. The study, called Holding All, aims to better understand the lives of carers and the support they may need, with a view to improving future services and policy.
What is the research about
The project is exploring the experiences of adult unpaid carers who support a loved one living with suicidal thoughts and feelings within LGBTQ plus communities in England. Researchers want to learn about the challenges carers face, how they cope and what kinds of support help or are missing.
People in LGBTQ plus communities can be at increased risk of suicidal thoughts because of factors such as discrimination and isolation. The research team wants to understand the impact of caring in this context, including the additional pressures carers may experience and the support they need to stay well themselves.
By listening to carers’ stories and experiences, the project hopes to build a clearer picture of what life is like for those providing support and to make recommendations for better mental health and social care support for carers in the future.
Who is running the study
The research is led by a team based at the London School of Economics and Political Science in partnership with professionals from mental health social care and people with lived experience. The project is supported by an advisory group including carers, practitioners and community organisations.
What taking part would involve
The team plans to speak with around thirty to forty unpaid carers through interviews and to invite some carers to keep short diaries about their daily lives and caring roles. They will also speak with organisations and professionals who support carers.
Findings will be used to create realistic examples of carers’ experiences and to inform workshops with carers and services. The aim is to help shape future local and national approaches to suicide prevention and support for unpaid carers.
Who is it for
The study is looking to hear from adults aged eighteen and over who have experience of supporting someone at risk of suicide and who identify as part of LGBTQ plus communities, or who support someone who does. Participants need to be English or British Sign Language speaking.
Why this matters
Unpaid carers play a vital role in supporting loved ones and communities. Research like this helps ensure that carers’ voices are heard and that services understand the realities of caring. By sharing experiences, carers can help shape better support and recognition for others in similar situations.
How to participate
If you would like to be involved in the study, please leave a voicemail on 0207 106 1420 or email the study lead, Jessica Carlisle, at J.Carlisle@lse.ac.uk
Further information
If you would like to learn more about the Holding All study you can scan the QR code in the project flyer (below) or click on the button below. You can also contact the research team directly via the details provided on their page.
Visit the project page on the London School of Economics website
Research project flyer
