Health researchers canvas Bradford families in UK ‘first’ to explore coronavirus challenges of life on the frontline
IN a health research ‘first’, more than 9,000 families across Bradford District are to be asked about how the coronavirus is impacting on their day-to-day lives.
Researchers are inviting families who are part of the Born in Bradford project to share a first-hand insight into how the pandemic is affecting their physical health and mental wellbeing.
The confidential survey will also turn the spotlight on other concerns, such as job insecurity; struggles to pay bills and the rent or mortgage; and whether people have been able to afford or source the food they need.
The emotional wellbeing impact of social isolation, and not being able to see family, friends and extended networks, will be explored too.
The project, which is breaking new ground in the UK amid the coronavirus challenge, is being spearheaded by Born in Bradford, based at the city’s Royal Infirmary.
Health researchers will be asking the views of over 9,000 families who have children at all stages of childhood – from pregnancy, the early years (pre-school) to primary and secondary school aged children.
“It’s important that we listen to the day-to-day experiences from as many families as possible living on the frontline,” said Director of Research, Professor John Wright.
“Their answers will give our research team a unique window into a world where coronavirus has touched the lives of all of us in many different ways.
“This insight will ensure we understand better the scale and range of these real-life challenges and concerns now facing our community.”
Participants will be invited to complete a questionnaire online, by phone or via the post – and, as it is totally confidential, it is hoped that a significant number will do so.
Dr Josie Dickerson who is leading the research added: “The more people who are able to feed back to us their experiences, the more we will have an accurate understanding of the challenges families in Bradford are facing and how our partners in the district can best support them in the future.”
“We would like to ask our Born in Bradford families to keep an eye out for an email, letter, or phone call from the research team over the next couple of weeks, and to please complete the survey so we know what challenges they are facing.”
- Born in Bradford is helping to unravel the reasons for ill health and bring new scientific discovery to the world. It is also providing a catalyst for communities to work with the NHNS and local authority to improve child health and wellbeing. For more information, visit www.borninbradford.nhs.uk.
