Real Lives – people ’ s experience of COVID-19
WE LOVE TO share stories of
how QMU ’ s work is making a practical impact on everyday lives . Right now , there is no greater threat to our way of life than COVID-19 , and our inspirational researchers wasted no time in responding to the crisis . Professor Cathy Bulley is dedicated to conducting research that can make a real difference to people ’ s quality of life . At the start of the pandemic , she worked with a team of multi-disciplinary researchers at QMU to apply for rapid research funding from the Chief Scientist ' s Office . This supported the team ’ s research into people ’ s experience of illness during the pandemic and is enabling QMU to make a positive contribution at this time of crisis and well beyond .
Professor Bulley , who is Co-Director of the Centre for Health , Activity and Rehabilitation Research at QMU , gives us an insight into her recent COVID-19 project .
Tell us about your research and why it ’ s important ? This research looked at people ’ s experiences of illness during the pandemic , but mainly focused on those who contracted COVID-19 . We then used the insights to develop recommendations about the type of support that people need to help them recover . By carefully listening to people ’ s experiences we were able to identify barriers that they encountered whilst trying to access support . This useful information is key in helping service designers develop accessible health and social care services which meet people ’ s needs .
Why is this work important ? Everyone affected by COVID-19 has the right to have their voice heard . The research gives us an understanding of what people need to help them recover – no matter where they live , whether or not they spent time in hospital , or what ethnic group they are from . Ultimately , we are able to share the results of our research to help other organisations develop accessible and effective services .
What groups took part in the research ? We heard from people who have experienced both short and long-term effects of COVID-19 , as well as other illnesses and health conditions . We also involved people who felt socially isolated ; people from different geographical areas and minority groups ; those involved in funding , designing , and delivering services ; as well as people who advocate for others .
How will the results be used and what happens next ? The report was submitted in October 2020 and will be available for policy makers , services providers and other interested parties to use . The next stage will be to build on this research by looking at the longer term effects of COVID-19 , with a focus on people living on low incomes and people from black , Asian and minority groups . ❒
Interested in this research ? Follow Twitter @ SupportAfterCovidStudy
10 QMYOU / Making a Difference Through Research