MSFHR partners to enable much-needed research on the mental health impact of COVID-19 on families and caregivers

Funding is now available to help understand and mitigate the mental health impact of COVID-19 on BC’s families and caregivers who raise children and youth with special needs thanks to a partnership between the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research (MSFHR), Mental Health Research Canada, and BC’s Ministry of Children and Family Development. The funding will support one British Columbia-based research team.

The COVID-19 crisis has affected all Canadians’ mental wellness, but those with more complex family needs have struggled even more due to decreased engagement with mental health services.

Children, youth, and families are particularly affected, especially families and caregivers who look after children and youth experiencing (or at risk of) developmental delay or disability. Those whose children and youth require support to optimize their development, functional abilities, and quality of life are also vulnerable.

The goal of the Child, Youth & Family Mental Health Impact Grant is to understand how COVID-19 affects mental health of these families and caregivers and to identify evidence-based, promising programs and practices to mitigate these impacts.

Research projects that qualify for funding must be led by two co-investigators and meet the following criteria:

• Are residents of British Columbia;
• One must be a researcher/academic from an accredited British Columbia-based academic institution, health authority, or community organization;
• One must be a leader or member of a British Columbia-based care or service provider with direct experience in the proposed research and interest in its intended outcomes; and
• The co-investigators must be supported by a team that includes a child, youth, family member and/or caregiver who has lived experience within your chosen research focus.

The award is valued at $50,000 to fund one team for a term of 12 months. Applications will be accepted between January 12, 2021, and February 28, 2021. Please visit the Mental Health Research Canada website to access the competition guidelines and apply via MHRC’s application portal.

MSFHR values strong partnerships that are integral to fostering world-class health research in BC. Together, we can invest in people and knowledge to achieve common goals and create new opportunities. Learn more about being an MSFHR partner.