Katherine Smith, Research Associate, Social Policy, School for Business and Society
Katherine is a Research Associate in Social Policy at the University of York.
She is currently working on a Health Foundation-funded research project on young people’s experiences of emotional support in York and Scarborough, and the impact of this upon outcomes, including mental health.
Previously, she has worked on research projects in the UK and Europe on youth participation and inequalities, and is interested in the process of doing research with young people, co-production and creative methods.
Our 60-second interview with Katherine:
Could you please tell us what work you do in the field of mental health?
I conduct qualitative research with young people addressing topics of family and close relationships, emotional support and mental health. This includes using qualitative interview methods, and creative and participatory approaches to involving young people in research.
What do you find most rewarding and inspiring in this work?
Working with young people and learning unique insights into lived experiences of support and mental health challenges.
What is the most challenging or complicated aspect of this work?
Engaging young people in research takes planning and effort to build trust, and it can take a lot of time. However, it is essential for us to do so as researchers to develop understanding of the lives of wide-ranging groups including those facing multiple barriers to research participation.
What impact do you hope your work is having - or can potentially have?
I hope that greater understandings of younger generations’ experiences of support and mental health can translate into practice and policy, and ultimately have a positive impact on the lives of young people.
Could you share with us one piece of advice that you follow for your own mental health?
Set boundaries and prioritise time to relax, even if it can be difficult when people have busy lives.