School of Human and Health Sciences Fee Waiver Scholarships

ID Number: HHS-2026-18 

Supervisor: Dr Daniel Hunt

An experimental investigation of intimate partner violence within same sex couple relationships

Intimate partner violence (IPV) refers to behaviours within an intimate relationship that result in physical, sexual, psychological, or economic harm, and represents one of the most common forms of violence globally (Blaydes et al., 2025; Wathen et al., 2024). It is estimated that 27% of women aged between 15-49 have experienced domestic violence at least once, with 13% experiencing violence in the last 12 months alone (WHO, 2021). Previous research has predominantly focused on male perpetrators and female victims (e.g. Clare et al., 2021; Pietzmeier et al., 2016), with more recent work exploring female‑perpetrated violence toward male victims (Richardson & Kloes, 2022).

Despite these developments, research still explores heterosexual relationships with limited attention being given to IPV within same-sex relationships, particularly female same‑sex couples, where relationship dynamics may differ. For instance, Reyes et al. (2022) suggest that same‑sex partners often face bidirectional patterns of perpetration and victimisation, a feature less commonly observed in heterosexual relationships. However, the broader understanding of IPV within same‑sex relationships remains underdeveloped and requires substantial empirical investigation.

Addressing this research gap is essential for improving the knowledge surrounding risk factors of perpetration and victimisation, as well as improved police responses to IPV offences within same-sex relationships.

Research aims

The primary aim of the research is to investigate the perpetration and victimisation of intimate partner violence within same sex couple relationships. Specifically, the research objectives are to:

1. Explore the prevalence of same-sex IPV within the UK;
2. Determine the key risk factors of perpetration and victimisation of IPV;
3. Explore the experiences of victims of same sex couple IPV;
4. Explore public perceptions of same sex couple IPV compared to heterosexual IPV. 

Deadline: 30th October 2026

For subject specific enquiries please contact: d.hunt2@hud.ac.uk 

 

ID number: HHS-2026-22

Supervisor: Dr James Shaw 

Effects of Strength and Conditioning on Golf Swing Biomechanics and Injury Risk Markers in Youth Golfers. 

This PhD project investigates the effectiveness of remotely delivered strength and conditioning (S&C) programmes in enhancing golf swing biomechanics and reducing injury risk in youth golfers. In the post-COVID landscape, digital delivery of coaching and physical preparation has become increasingly prevalent. However, there remains limited empirical evidence evaluating its impact on both performance and injury prevention. This project aims to address that gap by integrating sport science, biomechanics, and digital health to assess whether structured remote interventions can produce meaningful adaptations. 

Golf performance is underpinned by complex kinematic and kinetic factors, including efficient sequencing and force production. Simultaneously, youth golfers are exposed to repetitive loading patterns that elevate the risk of overuse injuries, including the lumbar spine, shoulders, and wrists. While traditional S&C programmes are known to improve physical qualities, it is unclear whether these benefits translate into biomechanical proficiency and reduced injury risk when delivered. 

This project aims to determine whether S&C can improve movement efficiency, reduce injury risk markers, and support athlete development. Findings will provide scalable, evidence-based solutions for coaches and governing bodies, with direct implications for youth sport policy, performance optimisation, and long-term athlete health.  

The successful applicant will join an interdisciplinary research environment that combines applied sport science, biomechanics, and digital innovation, offering opportunities to develop expertise in motion analysis, athlete monitoring, and remote intervention design. The project will suit a motivated candidate with an interest in youth athletic development, injury prevention, and performance enhancement within applied sporting contexts. Experience or enthusiasm for biomechanics, strength and conditioning, data analysis, or golf performance would be advantageous. By working closely with coaches, athletes, and practitioners, the candidate will gain valuable academic and applied research experience, positioning them for careers in sport science, high-performance sport, healthcare, or academia. 

Deadline: 30th October 2026

For subject specific enquiries please contact: j.shaw4@hud.ac.uk 

ID number: HHS-2026-20 

Supervisor: Dr Kate Wood and Dr Emily Heavey

Examining professional practice with intersex service users in health and social care 

ID number: HHS-2026-23

Supervisor: Dr Louise Ellis

The Effect of a Slow Breathing Intervention on Psychological Response and Penalty Kick Performance in Professional Football Players During a High-Pressure Protocol 

ID number: HHS-2026-24

Supervisor: Dr Michael Fish

How well do visual impairment simulations replicate true impairment when assessing physical health, gait, and mobility? 

Approximately 2 million people in the UK live with visual impairments (VI) that significantly affect their daily activities and independence. Acquired, inherited, and congenital visual deficits can have a substantial impact on mobility, with walking gait being one of the most widely studied aspects of functional movement. Understanding how vision loss influences gait is essential for improving rehabilitation strategies, mobility support, and quality of life for individuals with VI. 

Due to the challenges associated with recruiting participants with specific visual impairments, researchers frequently use simulated visual impairment techniques to investigate the effects of reduced vision on gait parameters. However, current research lacks consistency in the standardisation and reporting of these simulation methods. In many studies, limited information is provided regarding how closely simulated impairments replicate clinically diagnosed visual deficits. In addition, the effects of participant familiarisation and adaptation to simulated VI are rarely considered. These limitations raise important questions about the validity, reliability, and real-world applicability of existing findings. 

Working with colleagues with expertise in biomechanics and optometry, this PhD project aims to critically evaluate the use of simulated visual impairment in gait research, with the goal of improving methodological standardisation and establishing the scientific validity of commonly used simulation approaches. The project will investigate how simulation techniques compare to real-world visual impairment and assess factors influencing experimental outcomes. Findings from this research may contribute to the development of a novel, evidence-based visual impairment simulation device for future research and clinical applications. 

The project would suit applicants from a range of disciplines, including biomechanics, optometry, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, neuroscience, and related health or movement sciences. 

Deadline: 30th October 2026

For subject specific enquiries please contact: m.fish@hud.ac.uk  

ID number: HHS-2026-19

Supervisor: Dr Vickie Barrett

Experiencing Transitions Under Probation Supervision

This PhD will explore how individuals experience the transitions that shape individual journeys throughout probation supervision, focusing on the social, emotional, and structural transitions that occur as they move between different stages of the criminal justice process. Probation is often presented as a rehabilitative, community‑based alternative to custody, yet people under probation supervision frequently navigate complex transitions, such as release from prison, changes in housing or employment, adjustments to supervision requirements, and shifts in identity and relationships. Yet little is known about how individuals experience these transitions and the accumulative impact of them and how these either support or hinder desistance.

Research questions

This PhD will use a qualitative approach to answer the following research questions:

1. How do individuals subject to probation supervision experience the social, emotional, and structural transitions that occur as they move through different stages of the probation supervision?
2. In what ways do multiple and accumulative transitions, such as release from custody, housing instability, employment changes, different supervision requirements, and identity, facilitate or hinder individuals’ desistance and compliance? 
3. How do organisational practices and policy frameworks impact on the transitional experiences of people on probation?

By analysing these dynamics, this research aims to contribute to theoretical debates along with offering practical insights to support the development of probation practice. 

ID number: HHS-2026-21

Supervisor: Dr Leeanne Olivant

Supporting success in social work practice learning: Early identification and support for students at risk of placement failure

This project will explore how students experiencing difficulties during social work placements can be identified and supported at an early stage to improve outcomes and strengthen practice learning partnerships. 

Practice placements are a core part of social work education, enabling students to develop professional skills in real-world settings. While most students successfully complete placements, some encounter challenges that may lead to placement failure. This can have significant emotional and professional impacts for students, as well as implications for universities and placement providers. 

The research will investigate how concerns about student performance emerge, how they are recognised by practice educators and universities, and what forms of support are most effective. The study aims to contribute to improving practice educator training, enhancing collaboration between universities and placement providers, and developing more effective approaches to supporting students during placements. 

The successful candidate should have an interest in social work education, practice learning, student support, or professional practice. A qualitative research approach is anticipated, though candidates will have the opportunity to shape the detailed design of the project in collaboration with the supervisory team. 

Deadline: 30th October 2026

For subject specific enquiries please contact: l.olivant@hud.ac.uk

ID number: HHS-2026-25

Supervisor: Dr Precious Adade Duodu

Acceptability and effectiveness of tele-support systems for family caregivers of persons living with dementia 

Dementia caregiving in Ghana is predominantly informal, with family members providing long-term care in the absence of structured support systems. This places substantial psychological, financial, and social burdens on caregivers, often without access to professional guidance or respite services. Tele-support systems, defined as the use of digital platforms such as mobile applications, teleconsultations, and messaging services, offer a scalable approach to bridging gaps in caregiver support. In Ghana, increasing mobile phone penetration presents an opportunity to deploy tele-support interventions tailored to sociocultural contexts. However, evidence on their acceptability and effectiveness among family caregivers remains limited. This study addresses this gap through the design and evaluation of a culturally appropriate tele-support intervention, contributing to digital health research and policy in resource-constrained settings. 

Aims/Objectives:  

Aim: To evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of a culturally tailored tele-support system for family caregivers of persons living with dementia in Ghana. 

Objectives: 

• To co-develop a tele-support intervention with key stakeholders, including family caregivers, healthcare professionals, and digital health experts.
• To assess the acceptability, usability, and engagement with the tele-support system among family caregivers.
• To determine the effectiveness of the intervention in reducing family caregiver burden, improving mental health outcomes, and enhancing caregiving competence.
• To identify facilitators and barriers to the implementation and scale-up of tele-support systems in Ghana. 

Study methods

This study will adopt a sequential mixed-methods design. Phase one will involve participatory co-design of the tele-support system with family caregivers and healthcare professionals, incorporating remote consultations, education, peer support, and symptom monitoring. Phase two will use a quasi-experimental design comparing intervention and standard care groups. Phase three will employ qualitative interviews and focus group discussions to explore user experiences, acceptability, and implementation challenges, alongside quantitative data analysis to inform scalability and sustainability. 

Deadline: 30th October 2026

For subject specific enquiries please contact: p.a.duodu@hud.ac.uk 

ID number: HHS-2026-26

Supervisor: Dr Precious Adade Duodu 

Co-designing a mobile health-based dietary education intervention to improve dietary self-management adherence among adults with type 2 diabetes in Ghana

Type 2 diabetes is a major public health challenge. Effective self-management is essential for preventing complications and improving quality of life. Dietary self-management is a core component of diabetes care, yet many persons with type 2 diabetes (PLWD) in Ghana struggle to adhere to recommended dietary practices due to limited knowledge, competing lifestyle demands, and inadequate access to support.

Mobile health technologies offer opportunities to support diabetes self-management through accessible and scalable education. However, many digital health interventions are developed without meaningful engagement of end users, reducing relevance and effectiveness. This research will adopt a co-design approach to develop and evaluate a mobile health-based dietary education intervention for PLWD in Ghana. By involving patients, healthcare professionals (HCPs), and key stakeholders, the study aims to ensure a contextually-appropriate and responsive intervention to the needs of PLWD. 

Aim/Objectives  

Aim: To co-design a mobile health-based dietary education intervention to improve dietary self-management adherence among PLWD in Ghana. 

Objectives:  

• To explore barriers and facilitators influencing dietary self-management practices among PLWD in Ghana. 
• To co-design a mobile health-based dietary education intervention with patients, HCPs, and other relevant stakeholders. 
• To assess the feasibility and acceptability of the co-designed mobile health intervention. 

Study methods

This mixed-methods study will be conducted in two sequential phases. Phase one will involve qualitative interviews or focus group discussions with PLWD and HCPs to explore barriers and facilitators to dietary self-management. Data will be analysed thematically to inform intervention development. Phase two will use a participatory co-design process involving patients, clinicians, and researchers to develop the mobile health dietary education intervention through workshops and iterative prototyping. Feasibility outcomes will include recruitment, retention, completion, and engagement with the intervention. Dietary adherence will be measured using the validated dietary scale, with exploratory pre- and post-intervention analyses conducted using appropriate statistical tests. 

Deadline: 30th October 2026

For subject specific enquiries please contact: p.a.duodu@hud.ac.uk

 

ID number: HHS-2026-27

Supervisor: Dr Precious Adade Duodu

Influence of the food environment and food insecurity on dietary self-management behaviours among adults with type 2 diabetes in Ghana

Type 2 diabetes is a leading non-communicable disease globally and requires sustained self-management to prevent complications and improve quality of life. Adherence to recommended dietary practices is central to achieving optimal glycaemic control, yet dietary behaviours are influenced by individual knowledge and broader social and environmental factors. The food environment, including food availability, accessibility, affordability, and marketing, plays a key role in shaping dietary choices. Environments with widespread access to energy-dense foods may undermine effective dietary self-management. Household food insecurity may further restrict adherence to dietary recommendations due to economic constraints and uncertain food access. Despite growing recognition of these influences, evidence remains limited on how food environments and food insecurity jointly affect dietary self-management behaviours among persons with type 2 diabetes (PLWD) in Ghana. This study addresses this gap to inform public health interventions aimed at improving diabetes self-management. 

Aim/Objectives 

Aim: To examine the influence of the food environment and food insecurity on dietary self-management behaviours among PLWD in Ghana. 

Objectives:  

• To assess the level of dietary self-management adherence among PLWD in Ghana. 
• To examine the extent of household food insecurity among PLWD. 
• To assess characteristics of the local food environment that may influence dietary behaviours. 
• To determine the association between food insecurity and dietary self-management behaviours. 

Study methods:

This study will employ a cross-sectional analytical design among PLWD attending outpatient clinics. Participants will be recruited using systematic or consecutive sampling. Data will be collected using a structured questionnaire or validated scale to assess dietary self-management. Food environment measures will include perceived access to healthy foods, affordability, and availability of food outlets. Sociodemographic and clinical variables will be collected to control for confounding. Descriptive statistics and multivariable regression analyses will be conducted to examine associations between food insecurity, food environment characteristics, and dietary self-management behaviours. 

Deadline: 30th October 2026

For subject specific enquiries please contact: p.a.duodu@hud.ac.uk  

ID number: HHS-2026-29

Supervisor: Dr Tom Devlin

A reight / raat / right good sound: PRICE vowel variation across three West Yorkshire boroughs 

This project explores the regional identity of West Yorkshire accents, specifically the distribution of the PRICE vowel sound (as produced in words like ‘price’, ‘fight’, ‘sky’). PRICE varies between long-established monophthongs and innovative, levelled diphthongs in East and South Yorkshire, but has not been analysed in West Yorkshire since 2000. This study explores whether the trend shown in the previous studies towards diphthongisation is present in three West Yorkshire boroughs - Bradford, Kirklees and Wakefield - and whether these realisations may be indicative of identity markers. Furthermore, 'Yorkshire' is often perceived as a friendly accent, but rarely rates highly for prestige or intelligence, resulting in stigma and potential accentism in day-to-day life.

The findings could evaluate what the distribution of this feature says about accent and identity. Whether speakers’ pronunciation is monophthongal or diphthongal will be correlated against their perceptions of accent as recorded in qualitative interviews about accent and identity from the West Yorkshire Regional English Database (WYRED). The successful candidate will acoustically analyse vowel formant measurements to explain which factors influence the distribution shown, e.g. whether the trend in the literature towards diphthongs is continuing, and whether this is motivated by accentism, lack of prestige or another factor. 

The aims of the project are to:  

1. Analyse the distribution of the PRICE vowels in Bradford, Kirklees, and Wakefield from the WYRED database.  
2. Consider any regional variation that might exist between the three boroughs for this regionally-marked vowel, in comparison to previous literature from Yorkshire.  
3. Use the qualitative data from the WYRED interviews around perceptions of accent to understand how speakers' pronunciation of the PRICE vowel interacts with regional identity and the degree to which accentism may be affecting usage.  

ID number: HHS-2026-32

Supervisor: Dr Vikki Barry

Review of the literature of simulation-based learning to enhance application of theory to practice in occupational therapy.

This MSc research fee waiver project is funded by the University of Huddersfield, and we are seeking to attract a candidate with an interest in developing their research skills and knowledge and contribute too the knowledge base around simulation-based learning in occupational therapy. The project aims to complete a structured review of the existing evidence on how simulation-based learning supports the development of practice skills in occupational therapy students synthesising evidence of development of professional, communication, and person-centred skills in OT education. The approach will involve evaluating evidence and the impact on person centred practice, and result in implications and recommendations for curriculum design and educational practice. 

Simulation-based learning is an established area of research within health professional education, to support occupational therapy and allied health students in developing clinical reasoning, communication and person-centred skills and behaviours in realistic but safe learning environments. Understanding the most effective approaches for simulation-based learning for occupational therapy education has implications for the design of programmes and curricula that prepare learners for practice.

Simulation-based education provides the opportunity for safe, structured environments for future health care professionals to develop patient centred knowledge, skills and behaviours, improving positive care experiences in real-world care. Continuing to develop and enhancing understanding regarding effectiveness of Simulation-based learning is vital for continuing to transform and innovate for occupational therapy education and develop a pioneering workforce, despite additional resource pressures for higher education, health and social care. This literature review will inform both the university programmes, wider education delivery across health profession, and future research programmes.   

A structured review of the literature will be taken, informed by established frameworks. The review will map key themes, identify areas of convergence and gaps in current knowledge and consider implications for curriculum development for occupational therapy and health profession education sector.  

Deadline: 30th October 2026

For subject specific enquiries please contact: V.Barry@hud.ac.uk

ID number: HHS-2026-31

Supervisor: Dr Vikki Barry

Using an occupational justice perspective, explore hope within marginalised groups

This MSc research fee waiver project is funded by the University of Huddersfield. It is ideal for occupational therapists who want to progress their career developing research skills and with a keen interest in occupational and social justice. The aim of this research is to explore how hope is experienced and understood within marginalised groups, and how it relates to occupational identity. Examination of how hope is interpreted, enacted and adapted within the population and context is expected. This will support conceptual insights to inform social justice and equitable occupational therapy practice with diverse marginalised groups.  

Hope has been identified to be an important factor in occupational participation with some marginalised groups. This project in the field of occupational therapy and occupational science considers hope in relation to occupational identity and whether this is transferable to other marginalised groups. This further exploration of how hope and related concepts may help to explain how individuals understand and participate in meaningful occupation during adversity.  This is of importance to support equitable occupational therapy practice and enhance theoretical tools for working with diverse and marginalised groups. There is the potential to explore this concept in marginalised groups such as homelessness, survivors of domestic abuse, care leavers, long-term unemployment, neurodivergent adults facing social exclusion, and/or LGBTQ+adults. The specific population will be selected in collaboration with the student to ensure feasibility. 

This is an emerging area of occupational therapy and science and therefore will offer an opportunity to contribute and influence this evolving field. This will support and inform the ongoing transformation and delivery of health and social care services as they progress towards community delivery, inclusivity and individualisation in line with government and global agendas.   

We anticipate that this research will follow a qualitative methodology to support in-depth exploration of lived experience, meaning making and social processes. 

Deadline: 30th October 2026

For subject specific enquiries please contact: V.Barry@hud.ac.uk 

 

ID number: HHS-2026-30

Supervisor: Dr Vikki Barry 

How do people seeking asylum experience and negotiate occupation within the context of occupational science?   

This MSc research fee waiver project is funded by the University of Huddersfield. It would particularly suit occupational therapists with experience or interest in migration, asylum or occupational justice. The focus of the research is to explore how people seeking asylum experience and negotiate occupation - specifically disruption to occupation during the asylum process, using occupational science as the theoretical underpinning. It is also expected to consider priority occupational needs that support wellbeing, identity and participation and contextual factors. 

Restrictive asylum systems profoundly affect people’s everyday occupations, identities, routines, and opportunities for occupational participation. Asylum seekers often endure restricted access to work, education, social participation, and meaningful activities, limiting their ability to engage in occupations that support wellbeing, belonging, and identity formation. This aligns with established theoretical constructs within occupational science which argue that humans require opportunities for occupational engagement in order to thrive.

Occupation plays a critical role in identity construction, particularly for those who experience trauma, loss, and displacement. However, the occupational identities and occupational participation of people seeking asylum, present with limited understanding in practice and policy discussions, impacting upon services to provide culturally relevant, trauma‑informed, occupation‑focused support. Research that explores the occupational needs of people seeking asylum can inform service design, contribute to more inclusive practice, and support commitment to occupational justice. This research intends to address a significant theoretical and evidence gap, challenge structural and occupational injustices, and strengthen the support offered to address health, participation, and wellbeing through occupation. 

It is anticipated that a review of the contemporary evidence base will be conducted to inform the selection of an appropriate qualitative methodology which will enable in depth, contextually situated understanding.  

Deadline: 30th October 2026

For subject specific enquiries please contact: V.Barry@hud.ac.uk

ID number: HHS-2026-28

Supervisor: Dr Precious Adade Duodu

Experiences of African migrant nurses with career progression in the UK National Health Service

African migrant nurses (AMN) are a vital part of the UK NHS workforce, yet evidence points to uneven career progression, under representation in senior roles, and experiences of deskilling or stalled development. While policy initiatives promote equality, diversity, and inclusion, career opportunities remain underexplored. This study examines how AMN understand and experience career progression across NHS settings and bands, and how organisational cultures and interpersonal dynamics shape those experiences. By focusing on movement through roles, the study highlights facilitators such as sponsorship and culturally responsive supervision, alongside barriers including bias, limited visibility, and poor recognition of prior experience. The findings will inform practical recommendations to support fair, transparent development pathways that strengthen retention, wellbeing, and leadership diversity within the NHS. 

Aims/Objectives:

Aim: To explore and describe the experiences of African migrant nurses (AMN) with career progression within the UK NHS. 

Objectives:

• To document AMN perceptions and experiences of career progression, stagnation, or lack of advancement. 
• To identify organisational, cultural, interpersonal, and structural factors that influence access to training, promotion, and leadership opportunities. 
• To describe strategies used by AMN to navigate barriers, build professional credibility, and progress within their roles. 
• To develop practice‑relevant insights that can inform more equitable progression pathways within the NHS. 

Study methods:

This study will use Interpretive Description (ID) to generate practice‑focused understandings of how AMN experience career progression in the UK NHS. Participants will be recruited using purposive sampling to ensure variation in band, specialty, region, and training background. Approximately 15-20 participants will be recruited, guided by data saturation. Semi‑structured interviews will be conducted, transcribed verbatim, and analysed inductively using a thematic ID approach with constant comparison. Rigour will be supported through reflexive memoing, peer debriefing, and participant sense checking. Ethical approval will be obtained, and confidentiality and informed consent ensured. 

Deadline: 30th October 2026

For subject specific enquiries please contact: p.a.duodu@hud.ac.uk