Rising aggression, hostility and abuse: An exploration of experiences of safety and support needs in healthcare settings in Ireland

According to a recent Oireachtas committee hearing, at least 10 assaults happen in Irish hospitals every day. Over 9,000 assaults occurred between January 2021 and October 2022. The Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation (INMO) have called for greater supports to ensure the safety and welfare of its members. Many staff do not feel safe in the healthcare workplace.

In this study we will conduct an in-depth exploration of the experiences and support needs of healthcare staff in the context of increased levels of aggression, hostility, verbal and even physical abuse directed towards them in Healthcare Settings in Ireland.

A mixed methods approach will be adopted and include key stakeholders such as those who provide care in these settings as well as managers with responsibility to keep staff safe.

Tenure – 4 year PhD

Mandatory Specification

Candidates for this project will require a background in nursing, midwifery, psychology, social sciences, or other cognate discipline. All candidates should have a minimum of 2:1 honours degree (level 8) in the disciplinary area outlined or in a cognate discipline. Candidate should be highly motivated, enthusiastic individuals.

How do I apply?

To apply, please access the following link and complete the application form in full:

https://forms.office.com/e/kdWDNAiKut

• Unfortunately, we are unable to provide individual feedback to applicants.
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
• At this stage only successful candidates will be contacted to submit CV, transcripts and other relevant documentation.
• For successful candidates, referees will also be contacted at this stage for a reference.

Applications must include: 

(i) a completed application form 

(ii) English language requirements – see https://www.rcsi.com/dublin/postgraduate/policies-and-guidelines/english-language-requirements.

Deadline: All applications must be made online by 31 May 2024, (12am, midnight)

It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure the application form is completed in full and on time. Late and/or incomplete applications will not normally be assessed.

Further information on the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland can be found here: https://www.rcsi.com/

Expected shortlisting date – 10th June 2024

Expected interview dates – 21st, 24th and 25th June 2024

Projected start date of position – 16th September 2024

Supervisor Information

• Professor Mary Rose Sweeney
• Dr Lorna Staines (From the School of Population Health)
• Dr Tommy Kyaw-Tun (From the School of Medicine, Graduate Entry Medicine)
• Dr James Larkin
• Dr Jakub Gajewski