ARC NWC Launches Social Care Research Internships
ARC North West Coast (ARC NWC) has introduced a new Social Care Research Internship programme, providing a unique opportunity for social care staff to work with universities across the region. The initiative encourages participants to investigate key issues in social care that need further exploration or improvement, with the aim of benefitting both service users and staff.
Interns will receive training in research methods and ongoing support from experienced researchers. The programme also provides funding to cover costs and compensates employers for one day per week of the intern’s time (up to £6,000), allowing participants to focus on their research.
James Watson, Postdoctoral Research Associate, said “This is a chance for social care professionals to investigate the issues they encounter in their day-to-day work and bring forward evidence-based solutions. We often hear about challenges in the sector and in services, but this programme is about giving staff the tools and space to investigate those problems deeply, identify patterns, and work towards practical improvements. By supporting this kind of research, we’re not just building knowledge but encouraging real change that benefits both staff and those who rely on social care services.”
Danielle Christian, ARC NWC Research Associate highlighted, “We want to encourage anyone with an interest in improving social care to get involved. You don’t need to be an experienced researcher to apply, all of the support and training will be there for you. It’s an opportunity to take a fresh look at long-standing issues in social care and make a meaningful difference through thoughtful impactful high quality research and collaboration.”
The next application deadline is Monday 13th January 2025 at 5pm. For those interested in applying or discussing research ideas, contact James Watson or Danielle Christian for more information.
Further information can also be found here.
Contact details:
Danielle Christian (dchristian@uclan.ac.uk)
James Watson (james.watson2@liverpool.ac.uk)
