Social Resilience: A Transformative Journey for Lonely Young Persons
A brief update
Noel Wilson, Service User; Anne Mc Glade, Social Care Research Lead, Social Care Council
and Caroline Mc Gonigle, Mental Health and Learning Disability Lead, Strategic Planning and
Performance Group
Research conducted as part fulfilment of the Post Graduate Diploma/MSc course
"Development and Co-Production of Social Care Research" examined a 'self-referral'
programme, targeted at marginalised youth, aiming to improve their opportunities in life.
The research examined the programme's contribution to factors considered relevant to
establishing social resilience, overcoming loneliness and empowering participants for an
effective adulthood.
Using an inductive thematic methodology, a number of emerging themes were identified. Of
particular significance were aspects of the programmes delivery and a cluster of
psychosocial factors.
The research concluded that the voice of young people is an important contributor to the
success of programmes designed to improve the psychosocial wellbeing, educational and
employment prospects of marginalised youth, advocating the need for Youth Forums, or
equivalent, schemes to be important governmental considerations.
Further details may be obtained from the lead author using the e-mail address
*Noel Wilson e28533@btinternet.com
Noel Wilson is currently competing third module of the MsC in Research Methods at Ulster
University having completed a systematic review in year on, and an evaluation study in
year two to which this short abstract relates. As part of the year three third module, Noel is
keen to disseminate his work to help influence practice.