Research & Connect: showcasing self-harm research in Leeds and bringing minds together

Research is not a solo sport, and making connections with the right people is a key ingredient to doing high-quality work and making positive change.

That’s why I couldn’t say no to the opportunity to organise and chair the second Research & Connect seminar, hosted by the Division of Psychological & Social Medicine at the University of Leeds.

This event brought academics and advocates together to discuss groundbreaking research around self-harm and mental health happening in and around Leeds. But it wasn’t all just about presenting research – it was also about building connections and starting conversations that could lead to real change.

The seminar showcased three talks, each offering unique perspectives on self-harm and mental health care:

• I shared the aims and methods of the EmCASH Study, which seeks to improve emergency care for young people who self-harm by finding out what works, for whom, in what situations, and why.

• Marsha McAdam, a mental health advocate, highlighted her Churchill Fellowship findings on the injustices faced by people diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD), challenging us to think about equity and stigma in mental health care.

• Hannah Sharp, a PhD student, presented her work on making adult mental health inpatient settings safer for people who self-harm, linking research insights to the policies and practices of NHS Trusts.

These talks sparked thoughtful questions and discussions, showing just how much we can learn from one another’s work.

A major theme of the seminar was translating research into changes that benefit patients. We talked about how studies like EmCASH can guide decision-makers to design services that truly meet the needs of young people. Similarly, Marsha and Hannah’s presentations challenged us to think about how research findings can reduce stigma, improve safety, and drive equity in care.

It was inspiring to hear attendees discuss how they could apply insights from the seminar to their own projects, whether or not their work directly focuses on self-harm. By raising the profile of studies like EmCASH and encouraging open dialogue, we’re building a community of researchers, advocates, and practitioners who are committed to improving mental health care.

Organising this seminar was a rewarding experience, and I’m excited to see how the ideas and connections formed will continue to grow. Events like this remind us that research isn’t just about gathering knowledge – it’s about working together to make a real difference for people who need it most.

Stay tuned for more updates on EmCASH and future opportunities to connect and share ideas!