Postgraduate research project

Understanding the structure and engagement of personal networks that support older people with complex care needs in marginalised communities and their ability to adapt to increasingly ‘digitalised’ health and social care

Funding
Fully funded (UK and international)
Type of degree
Doctor of Philosophy
Entry requirements
MSc with 2:1 honours/merit View full entry requirements
Faculty graduate school
Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences
Closing date

About the project

In this fully funded PhD project, you will investigate the ability of older people with complex care needs to adapt to an increasingly digitalised health care landscape.

As healthcare needs increase, online health resources have become more popular to help people take charge of their own health management in an economically sustainable way. However, this raises concerns about how those with limited access to online resources can be supported.

In collaboration with the ESRC South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership, your research will examine the personal support networks for older people with complex care needs in marginalised communities, identifying implications for policies and healthcare practices.

You’ll use a mixed methods approach, developing quantitative social network analysis and qualitative network interviews. Your research will be supported by a supervisory team with expertise in social science health research and clinical experience working with older people with complex care needs.

This is a supervisor led PhD project for equality, diversity and inclusion. We encourage candidates from under-represented backgrounds to apply.