Developing a sustainable programme: design and evaluation

My first project involved conducting a systematic literature review to examine existing evidence on mental health interventions for refugee and asylum-seeking children. Having never previously conducted a systematic review, I felt it important to follow the most appropriate guidelines. COCHRANE and PRISMA present highly effective protocols which increased my confidence to perform the task to a good standard. During my second placement I was asked to evaluate a training and supervision programme in cognitive and behavioural approaches. This was achieved by way of interviews within a CMHT in Coventry, which were then analysed using Template Analysis. The final project involved the on-going development towards promoting mental health of refugee and asylum-seeking children in schools. The research involved gaining the views of relevant school staff; uncovering their perspective of what is currently happening in schools and the support they feel is needed using a method of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. During the course of this MRes I have expanded my research knowledge greatly. I have enjoyed collaborative working with my supervisors during the three placements and believe the supervision I received has improved my critical and analytical skills, in particular my ability to synthesise material and keep recommendations grounded in the data.