PhD Studentship - Exploring UNICEF UK Baby Friendly implementation in a maternity unit

PhD Studentship - Exploring the barriers, challenges and opportunities affecting the successful implementation of the UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative standards into a maternity organisation

The PhD research project will adopt a case study methodology to understand the barriers and challenges to implementing UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) standards at Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, and to inform efforts to improve breastfeeding rates (at 6 weeks). Objectives are to: a) Explore the experiences of maternity staff when using the BFI standards b) Observe maternity staff in practice when involved with infant feeding practices c) Explore the experiences of women in respect of infant feeding support and choices. The project outcomes include: developing a range of options / strategies to address the challenges and barriers identified.

This is an exciting opportunity that will enable an aspiring midwife to combine clinical practice with a research role, working across the University and DCH. You will work with supervisors drawn from both academic and clinical institutions in a tri-partite arrangement, and will have access to a wide range of resources to support the project. Formal training in research skills, such as interviewing and observation, will be provided through Bournemouth University’s Centre for Qualitative Research and the Bournemouth University Clinical Research Unit, with personal development through academic supervisors. You will be part of a large body of doctoral students in the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, with access to Postgraduate lectures and support sessions.

Live and work in the beautiful county of Dorset, with outstanding beaches at Poole and Bournemouth and the stunning landscape of the Jurassic coast.

This is a fully-funded PhD studentship which includes a stipend of £14,777 each year to support your living costs.

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