Researchers at Trinity College Dublin are conducting a study to explore how adolescents (aged 11-17 years) with mental health difficulties, and their parents, experience care in Irish children’s hospitals- including the impact of the admission on them, challenges and supports they received, and what they believe would improve care. The findings will inform recommendations to enhance services for this vulnerable group.

Individuals interested in participating can reach out directly to the researcher to schedule a one-time interview lasting approximately 30–60 minutes, which will take place online or at a location convenient for the participant.

Eligible participants are adolescents aged 11–17 who were admitted to an Irish children’s hospital or unit for management of a mental health difficulty, along with their parents or guardians.

Ethical approval has been obtained from the Faculty of Health Sciences at Trinity College Dublin (Ref: 250301).

Contact information for the researcher and supervisor

Researcher: Lisa Kirwan, kirwanl4@tcd.ie

Supervisors: Professor Imelda Coyne, coynei@tcd.ie , Dr. Jan De Vries, devriej@tcd.ie