Institutional Geographies of Psychiatric Detention is a research project about sectioning (being detained under the Mental Health Act). The research explores how sectioning creates social inequalities. A key aim is to understand why people from ethnic minority backgrounds are most likely to be sectioned. The project is funded by the Leverhulme Trust and based at Queen Mary University of London. It is led by Dr. Ed Kiely (they/them), a researcher with lived experience of mental health service use. The project is guided by a steering group of 9 people who have been sectioned.
The research is based on interviews with two groups of people: people who have been sectioned, and mental health professionals who make sectioning decisions.
For this opportunity, the research team are seeking people with lived experience of being sectioned, to undertake analysis of interview transcripts. They are particularly keen to involve:
- Black people
- People from other ethnic minorities
Participants will read transcripts of interviews, then take part in co-analysis workshops. This will help the research team to identify and understand key themes.
The key outcomes the research is hoping to achieve:
- Better understandings of how being sectioned can impact your everyday life
- Identifying ways in which the decision-making of psychiatric professionals might reproduce social inequalities
- Contributing to less use of sectioning and coercive treatment
To take part, you will need:
- Lived experience of being sectioned under the Mental Health Act. It does not matter which section you were held under, nor how long you were detained. You do not need to share any of your experiences to take part.
- Interest in social science research
- Access to a computer, tablet, or phone, webcam, and stable internet connection to join any online meetings with video.
- Preference will be given to Black people and to people from other ethnic minority backgrounds. Please inform the researchers if this applies to you.
Expected commitment from participants:
- Dr. Ed Kiely will hold three workshops before the end of 2026 (April, August, and October)
- Timing will be based on participant availability
- Each meeting will last 2 hours, plus around 3 hours preparation
Closing date to apply: 18:00, Friday 10th April 2026
Participants will be invited to share access needs and the researcher will make accommodations and reasonable adjustments as necessary. Dates and times will be flexible and set according to members’ needs. Translation needs will be met. Documents will be produced in accessible formats according to members’ needs.
The researcher will compensate members for their time, including preparation time, at NIHR participation rates (£27.50/hr). Expenses will also be covered.
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