Dr Louise Isham
Assistant Professor
Louise's research focuses on the experiences of carers and families, with a particular focus on carer harm across the life-course and the inequalities that shape different types of 'care work'.
Carer harm in the context of families affected by serious mental illness
Family carers of those with serious mental illness play a vital role in fostering hope and connection but may face “carer harm,” including physical, psychological, or sexual abuse, often unintentional and multifaceted. These harms pose ethical and practical challenges, impacting carers’ ability to seek support. In severe cases, harm may escalate to violence, especially with mental illness or substance abuse.
About the Carer Harm study
This study, involving carer co-researchers, explores the experiences of families affected by harm and violence in the context of mental illness. It aims to improving understanding of carer harm to consider how policy and practice could better identify and support affected families, without further stigmatising people with mental health issues. The study has been designed in partnership with people with experience of caring and of using mental health services.
What are the key objectives of this research?
- To investigate if, and in what ways, carer harm is evident in circumstances where a person with serious mental ill health has committed a homicide or other serious violence
- To develop understanding of ‘carer harm’ (for example a model or theory) that considers intersectional issues (relating to social identities and inequalities)
- To better understand how carers affected by carer harm seek help from peers (online) and what type of support they need and value
How will we share our findings?
The research findings will be shared via quarterly blogs and newsletters will be published on the study website, alongside a podcast and video summarising key findings. A free-to-access lay report will also be produced, with findings further disseminated through national and regional organisations that support carers and focus on mental health issues. The findings will also be shared at practitioner-focused findings will be shared through targeted events and networks. Academic publications from the study will be published as open access (i.e. accessible to all to use and download).
Working with carer co-researchers
People with experience of caring will play a critical role in this study, working as ‘co-researchers’ at each stage. Co-researchers receive training and support throughout the project, as well as payment. Co-researchers will be involved in activities such as:
- Offering knowledge and experience of the issues being researched
- Assisting with data analysis of Independent Investigation Reports
- Assisting with data analysis of online carer communication
- Working alongside fellow co-researchers in group meetings and workshops
Recruitment opportunitiesWe have two exciting opportunities to join our team and are currently recruiting co-researchers and advisors for the project. For further information visit our recruitment page.
Funder details
Funder details
The project is funded by School for Social Care Research (SSCR), National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) and is part of the carers focused work.