Research project: The Project TV Loneliness and Social networks (PALS) study
A cluster-randomised trial comparing GENIE with usual care for socially-isolated people, with embedded process evaluation and qualitative studies.
A cluster-randomised trial comparing GENIE with usual care for socially-isolated people, with embedded process evaluation and qualitative studies.
The PALS study will assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of introducing a social networking intervention (i.e. ) in a community setting. We will map an individual’s social network and link people with social activities and support as an intervention to address social isolation and loneliness, in comparison to a “usual care” wait-list control group.
There will be a series of qualitative process studies nestled within the trial to examine the processes (and issues) relating to implementing the intervention within the community context, and economic modelling to assess whether this is cost effective.
PI: Dr Rebecca Band
Process evaluation lead: Dr Jaimie Ellis
Dr Tara Cheetham
Karina Kinsella (external)
Kate Rodger
Leyli Beheshty-Zadeh
Sandy Ciccognani
Co-investigators:
Dr Rebecca Kandiyali (external)
Katie Breheny (external)
Dr Christian Blickem (external)
Social isolation and loneliness: the experiences of mothers
The purpose of this study is to develop a rich understanding of the experiences of loneliness and social isolation for new mums, and their relationship with mental health and personal social networks.
The overall aim of the study is to explore how loneliness and social isolation is experienced by women who are mums and how these experiences relate to their personal social networks.
TV team:
Theoretical approaches to loneliness
Evidence suggests that for some individuals addressing social cognitions (that is, underlying thoughts in relation to meaningful social engagement and the associated behaviours and emotions) could be as beneficial in addressing loneliness.
The purpose of this study is to review the literature for relevant existing evidence for cognitive/ cognitive behavioural factors in loneliness. As this literature is likely to be limited, the review will also be extended to include social anxiety and paranoia.
TV team:
The collective efficacy of British communities during the COVID-19 pandemic
Given the unpredictable and unprecedented nature of the current situation here in the UK, the likely prolonged periods of individual isolation, and increased potential need to rely on (as well as offer support to) personal social networks, the current study proposes to build on expertise and ongoing work in understanding the relationships between isolation, connecting with social networks and mental wellbeing in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
TV team:
Tel: +44 (0)7856871195
Twitter: @PALS_study
Social Network Health and Wellbeing