Graduate Research Degree Awarded - Sarah Loveday

Congratulations to Sarah Loveday - Graduate Research Degree Awarded 28th April 2025

Degree: Doctor of Philosophy
Supervisors: Prof Harriet Hiscock (Primary), Prof Sharon Goldfeld, Prof Lena Sanci
Advisory Committee: Dr Fiona Mensah (Chair), Ms Vicki Horrigan

Thesis Title: Improving responses to childhood adversity: A mixed method assessment of barriers and facilitators of practice change

Thesis Summary: Improving the identification and response to childhood adversity is key to changing the long-term outcomes for children. However, research shows that practitioners are reluctant to address adversity due to a perceived lack of community resources, time pressures and a deficit of training or confidence to ask and respond. Moreover, responding to adversity is emotionally taxing. Practitioners across health and social care were trained to identify and respond to adversity and were supported as part of an integrated health and social care Child and Family Hub.

Practitioners reported increased competence, comfort and confidence to ask and respond to adversity. Social connection, knowledge, and the confidence in their ability were key drivers of practice change. Changing practice takes more than just education and training.

Future projects need to build in opportunities for social connection and coaching to improve practitioner confidence and competence if they are to realise practice change.

Date awarded: 28th April 2025