Collaboratory Researcher Profiles
Project Title: Investigating perceptions of the National Childhood Measurement Programme in schools to co-create improved resources to support young children’s health and wellbeing.
What were you doing before starting this PhD?
I have been qualified as a Nurse for over 10 years and have worked in a variety of Nursing roles in the NHS, predominantly with children and families as a Public Health Nurse as well as within Mental Health and I held a specialist role in recent years with children in care.
What motivated you to apply for this specific PhD project?
I knew as soon as I saw this project that it was the right fit for me. As a nurse I have a lot of experience working with those who experience preventable health problems and I have a strong passion for prevention, health promotion and improving public health. Preventing an illness will always be better than treating it. I want to help empower people to make positive change, and improve their health, preventing illness and improving wellbeing. This research project has the same principles at its heart. I was also drawn to this research project as it respects and values the experiences of parents, teachers and children in Leicestershire and I am looking forward to working alongside them to create research together and improve things at a local level.
What difference do you hope to make in Leicester through this research?
I hope that this research leads to improved mental and physical health outcomes for children and their families, through improving understanding of the NCMP, creating resources which are educating, empowering and supportive for those who use it.
What do you hope to be doing in 5 years’ time?
A big question! I hope to continue to conduct and share research which directly has a positive impact on health and wellbeing. I will have finished my PhD then and whilst I cannot say where it will take me as I know there are quite a few options; I am happy to embrace all the new skills and knowledge along the way.