3 Active Local Research Studies

1 Friendship Bench – free mental health support for people from migrant and ethnically diverse backgrounds in Sussex

This is a pilot research project, offering participants six free weekly sessions in Lewes, Eastbourne, or Brighton. The support will be provided under the Friendship Bench framework, which is a globally recognised mental health support model based on talking therapy and problem-solving. This pilot project is being delivered by Diversity Resource International in partnership with Brighton and Sussex Medical School.

Adults aged 18 or over who meet all three of the following criteria can register their interest in being part of the pilot: 1) Live in Sussex; 2) Are from migrant, refugee or ethnic minority backgrounds; 3) Would like support for low mood, anxiety, loneliness, or other mental health needs.

The pilot is due to commence in the first half of August – anyone interested is encouraged to get in contact as soon as possible.

More information and details about how to register are available at https://driorg.com/sussex-friendship-bench/ and on the attached flyer.

2 The Looking Forward Project – support for young women, aged 16-25, not in education, employment or training (NEET) living in Sussex

Do you have contact with young women, aged 16-25, not in education, employment or training (NEET)? This NIHR funded project is testing a new public health programme to help young women who are NEET develop a hopeful mindset, identify future goals, and make positive plans. It’s available to young women living in Sussex (and Kent or Norfolk).

Young women referred to the project will try out a version of the programme, complete assessments at three timepoints, and be offered three £20 vouchers.

Attached is a flyer which can be shared (‘TLFP’), and further information about the project can be accessed at www.behopeful.co.uk

TLFP_YW Recruitment Flyer V1.0 18.12.24 E.Sussex_services (2)

We would be grateful if you could share this information with any individuals or groups you think could get involved and may benefit from the support on offer.

3 Research into skin issues through menopause

Research study investigating skin issues through the menopause. There are two parts of the study, firstly a national survey that can be answered by anyone living in England who is experiencing perimenopause or menopause.  The second part will involve interviewing a small number of women with skin issues through the menopause who live in the South East. The current research on skin issues through the menopause is really lacking so researchers are keen to share this information with any relevant networks you may have. Please see attached posters for links to study and sign-up information. 

Anyone interested in taking part can contact the research team directly, via the links on the attached posters or email Dr Claudia DeGiovanni (Lead Researcher) at [email protected]