Erika Cantrell, Stephen Weatherhead and Hayley Higson
This study aimed to explore the interaction between the benefits system and the work of clinical psychologists. The perceived impact of the benefits system on the practice of…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aimed to explore the interaction between the benefits system and the work of clinical psychologists. The perceived impact of the benefits system on the practice of clinical psychologists and their perspectives on the role of Clinical Psychology this context were explored.
Design/methodology/approach
Fifteen clinical psychologists who worked in a variety of National Health Service (NHS) settings across England were interviewed. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns in the data.
Findings
Issues relating to the benefits system were seen to increase the demand for psychological support but created barriers to engagement. Participants faced dilemmas regarding how best to practice in this context and felt uncertain of their role. Participants wanted further support and guidance to understand their role and how they could effectively support clients affected by the benefits system. Most participants interacted with the benefits system on an individual-level but believed that clinical psychologists should influence higher-level change, with adequate support and professional leadership.
Originality/value
There is a paucity in research exploring the practice of mental health professionals in relation to socioeconomic influences on mental health. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study exploring the association between the work of clinical psychologists and the benefits system.
Details
Keywords
The West Midlands region has been poorly represented in national media and especially in fictional media forms. The Archers is therefore a very important part of representation of…
Abstract
The West Midlands region has been poorly represented in national media and especially in fictional media forms. The Archers is therefore a very important part of representation of the region to the nation. These two representational elements — regional and national culture — are part of the BBC’s duties under the Royal Charter. As such, they form a core obligation for the BBC. For many years arguments have raged over whether Ambridge is located in Worcestershire or Warwickshire. This is, of course, largely a matter of interest within the region, but does have some wider implications about narrative fiction. Whilst, in one sense Ambridge and Borsetshire are purely fictional, they simultaneously have a potential impact on the national image of the West Midlands and especially its rural areas. This chapter will consider both reasons to suggest that The Archers is specifically drawn from the county of Worcestershire and issues of identity formation that may arise from the representations offered by The Archers of the county and the West Midlands region.