SSCR PhD Student
cnt554@student.bham.ac.uk
Chau’s career to date: I have over 15 years of work experience in public health and social development in Vietnam and 6 years in UK for Refuge Charity amongst some of the most vulnerable communities focussing on refugees, asylum seekers, victims of modern slavery, and domestic violence. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from HCMO University, Vietnam, and a Master’s degree in Public Health from Vrije University Amsterdam, the Netherlands. I have also recently completed a Master’s degree in Health and Social Management and Policy from London Metropolitan University, UK.
Host university: University of Birmingham
Project title: Equity in Adult Social Care Availability and Accessibility for Vulnerable Adult Migrants in the UK
Project summary: This study explores equity in adult social care by examining the availability, accessibility, and utilisation of services for ethnic minority (EM) groups, focusing on vulnerable adult migrants such as asylum seekers, refugees in the UK. The research pursues four key objectives:
1) Identify social care needs among EMs and asylum seekers/refugees;
2) Review current service provision and utilisation;
3) Analyse barriers and challenges to access to social care services; and
4) Develop recommendations for policymakers, service managers, and providers to promote equitable access.
A qualitative methodology will be employed, including semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and observations. This research is anticipated to address critical knowledge gaps in policy and practice contributing to exclusion or unmet needs, and propose evidence-based strategies to enhance inclusion, cultural competence, and accessibility. The research ultimately contributes to debates on equity in service provision, the impact of funding crises, and the need for culturally responsive care models.
Anticipated completion date: September 2028
PhD supervisors: Dr Jennifer Allsopp and Dr Andrew Jolly
