Jilesh Kunnumpurath, a PHD student from the University of Birmingham, is carrying out research on how effective Direct Payments are for individuals in Black and Minority Ethnic communities.
Direct Payments have been in place for over twenty years, and in that time, they have become a cornerstone of personalised care. Giving thousands of disabled people across the country increased choice and control over their lives.
However, despite now being used by over 115,000 people nationally, the uptake of Direct Payments within Black and Minority Ethnic communities is thought to be considerably lower than it is in White communities. Jilesh’s study aims to understand the reasons for this, through the following research questions:
- Are there any specific barriers experienced by adults from Black and Minority Ethnic backgrounds in implementing Direct Payments and why?
- How do barriers and enablers of Direct Payments change if users have access to them for a short period of time versus a long period of time?
- Are Direct Payments dynamic and adaptable to rapid changes in an individual’s life?
- Do Direct Payments enhance users’ choice and control and empower them to remain independent?
What does the study involve?
Participants will be interviewed three times over a 12-month period. The first interview will last up to two hours, with subsequent interviews lasting an hour. Interviews will take place virtually or over the phone, but face-to-face will be considered if this is preferred.
You will receive a shopping voucher after each interview as a token of appreciation.
Who can take part?
The study is looking for individuals who meet the following criteria:
- From Black or Minority Ethnic communities
- Adults aged 18 or over, preferably over the age of 65
- Have been using Direct Payments for over a year
- Can speak English or Hindi.
All personal information will be kept confidential and can only be accessed by Jilesh, and all interview data will be anonymised before it is analysed or stored.
You also have the right to withdraw from the study within 12 months of your first interview. If you withdraw, all your data will be removed from the study.
If you are interested in taking part, please email Jilesh.
