The programme is a collaboration between Kingston University, King's College London, NIHR ARC South London and the NIHR Policy Research Unit in Health and Social Care Workforce. It has received funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) to build research capacity in the social care sector.

"We want to empower social care practitioners to use research evidence to enhance practice and drive positive changes," says Professor Priscilla Harries, programme lead, Professor of Occupational Therapy, Kingston University and ARC South London academic training lead. 

By developing the research skills of social care staff and promoting a research culture, we can deliver better outcomes for service users informed by evidence

Professor Priscilla Harries, programme lead, Professor of Occupational Therapy, Kingston University and ARC South London academic training lead

The Social Care Research Capacity Building Programme aims to build research capacity in adult and children's social care by supporting successful applicants to engage in a range of research activities. 

The programme aims to:

  • Build research skills and knowledge among social care staff 
  • Support the use and development of social care research
  • Improve research infrastructure, especially in under-served communities 
  • Promote equality, diversity and inclusion in social care research

Successful applicants will receive personalised support to engage in a range of funded research training, learning and development opportunities tailored to their needs. This could include designing and delivering research projects, accessing mentorship, taking training courses, implementing evidence in social care practice or pursuing work-based research initiatives.

We are offering a flexible range of opportunities to suit different roles and levels of experience. From conducting evaluations to becoming a research leader, there are pathways for everyone to strengthen their research capabilities

Maria Brent

Dr Maria Brent, operational lead for the programme, social worker and postdoctoral research fellow, Kingston University

The programme is open to social care staff employed by organisations in the London boroughs of Bexley, Bromley, Croydon, Greenwich, Kingston, Lambeth, Lewisham, Merton, Richmond, Wandsworth, Southwark and Sutton. Priority will be given to applicants from diverse backgrounds working with under-served communities.

Employer organisations can also apply for funding of up to £9,000 to enable them to release staff to engage in research activities. 

Find out more and apply

We are holding two online workshops for anyone who would like to find out more about the programme and application process. To book your place, email: SHARE@kingston.ac.uk 

•             Wednesday 29 May, 12.30 to 1.30pm Link to MS teams meeting

•             Thursday 6 June 11.30am to 12.30pm Link to MS Teams meeting

Find out more and apply for a place on the programme

Applications close on 8 July 2024 at 9am, with successful applicants notified by 31 July.