Most of the DAPPLE Team. Photo: Kingston University. Irene says: This is a study I have wanted to do for a very long time. My previous studies have focused on the experiences of people with a learning disability at the end of life; their information and support needs; breaking bad news; staff training and support needs (from palliative care nurses to support workers); end of life care planning.  Conclusions from these studies almost always include the need for everyone to wor

The year was 2006. I was about to embark on what would turn out to be a research-career-defining study. I wanted to spend time with people with a learning disability who had cancer, to try and see the world through their eyes and learn about their needs. I had written my first ever big grant proposal, and Cancer Research UK said yes, good idea, we’ll fund it. I had passed my plan by the national Research Ethics Committee, and they liked it too, especially my easy-read informa

The other week we gathered around the talented researchers to do some training. We focused on those researchers who will be going out and learning about people’s lives and how they are supported by different services and those around them, especially when they have a life-limiting illness and may be towards the end of life. They will be going to four parts of the country and, through their engagement with people and services, developing a sense of case studies. To do this, th