Tagged / BU research

New paper published on disability in women & girls

international, open access, Publishing, Women's Academic Network, writing

Yesterday (25 June) the online journal PLoS One published ‘Life-time experience of violence among women and girls living with disability in Nepal‘ our latest study on disability in Nepal [1].  This cross-sectional study was conducted in 28 municipalities representing all seven provinces as well as all three ecological regions of Nepal. A total of 1,294 women and girls with disability aged 15–59 years participated in  2021. We trained local enumerators using the KoBo application on smartphones or tablets. Both written and oral informed consent was sought from all participants. Cross-tabulations were performed in STATA 18 to determine the distribution of the prevalence of violence. Also, bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were fitted to establish association between the participants’ characteristics and odds of experiencing violence.

Overall, 457 (35.32%) women living with disabilities had ever experienced violence at a point in their lifetime. Psychological/emotional violence was the most prevalent violence (74.40%) followed by physical violence (31.07%) and denial of services (28.67%). Age was positively associated with the likelihood of experiencing violence. Women belonging to the Brahman/Chhetri ethnic group had reduced odds of violence [AOR = 0.56; 95%CI: 0.37–0.85] compared to Hill Dalits. Divorced or separated women showed a markedly higher likelihood of experiencing violence [AOR = 6.69; 95%CI: 2.31–19.40] compared to currently married women. Participants who had not witnessed violence against other women exhibited significantly higher odds of experiencing violence [AOR = 1.86; 95%CI: 1.20–2.89]. Women living in the Koshi province [AOR = 4.04; 95%CI: 2.54–6.42], Madhesh province [AOR = 2.16; 95%CI: 1.15–4.08] and Bagmati province [AOR = 2.21; 95%CI: 1.41–3.46] reported significantly higher odds of experiencing violence compared to those in Karnali.

The paper concludes oncludes that age, ethnicity, marital status, and provincial residence are significant predictors of violence among women and girls living with disability in Nepal. Interventions aimed at addressing violence against women living with disability in Nepal must prioritize older women and those who were previously married. Also, policy-makers may want to consider giving priority must be given to those provinces where the prevalence and risk of experiencing violence is highest.

The study was funded The United Nations Women Trust Fund,  and the paper is freely available in the Open Access journal.  We previously published on research into disability in Nepal in 2023 [2].

Prof. Edwin van Teijlingen

Centre for Midwifery & Women’s Health

Visiting Faculty, Centre for Disability Studies, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala, India.


References:

  1. Simkhada P, Basnet S, Sharma S, van Teijlingen E, Wasti SP, Dahal T, et al. (2025) Life-time experience of violence among women and girls living with disability in Nepal. PLoS One 20(6): e0326659. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0326659.
  2. Simkhada, P, Shyangdan, D, van Teijlingen E, Kadel, S, Stephen, J., Gurung, T. (2013) Women’s Knowledge & Attitude towards Disability in Rural Nepal. Disability & Rehabilitation 35(7): 606-13. http://informahealthcare.com/doi/abs/10.3109/09638288.2012.702847

MaGPIE Publishes Collaborative Paper in the IRRC

international

The MaGPIE (Mass Grave Protection, Investigation and Engagement) team, run out of the Humanities and Law department, have recently had their first collaborative paper published in the International Review of the Red Cross.

 

The paper entitled ‘Mass grave mapping and the protection of the dead gives’ insight into the current research being undertaken within the project, including the ongoing mapping of mass graves globally. It also asks, to what extent mapping can be considered a preventative process.

 

To read the full paper follow the link in the image below:

 

 

Paper accepted on women and disability in Nepal

international, open access, Women's Academic Network, writing

The academic editor of PLOS ONE informed us yesterday that our latest paper ‘Life-time experience of violence among women and girls living with disability in Nepal: A cross-sectional study’ [1] has been accepted for publication.  The paper is based on research conducted as part of the Inclusive Partnership Against Violence (INPAV) project in Nepal.  Working with our long-term research paper Green Tara Nepal (GTN) and funded by The United Nations Trust Fund (UNTF) through Nepal Disabled Women Association (NDWA), we have been involved in InPAV. This project included a situation analysis of the existing government setup One-stop Crisis Management Center (OCMC) to understand the inclusiveness of the OCMC services for girls and women with disabilities.  The paper just accepted was part of this research.

 

Prof. Edwin van Teijlingen

Centre for Midwifery & Women’s Health

 

  1. Simkhada, P., Basnet, S., Sharma, S., van Teijlingen, E., Wasti, S.P., Dahal, T., Okyere, J., Silwal, R.C., Pyakurel, M. (2025) Life-time experience of violence among women and girls living with disability in Nepal: A cross-sectional study . PLoS ONE (accepted).

BU ECRN seed fund success for Dr Sarah Hambidge

Supporting ECRs to Publish Through a Writing Workshop on Exploitation and Violence

BU ECRN Seed Funding was awarded to Dr Sarah Hambidge, supported by Kari Davies, to organise and host an Exploitation and Violence Writing Workshop. The event brought together 22 participants, including 18 early career researchers (ECRs) from six different higher education institutions, all of whom are engaged in research topics related to exploitation and violence.

The workshop featured a series of structured sessions aimed at helping ECRs set and review their writing goals. A key highlight of the day was the Mastering the Publication Process and Writing Strategies session, delivered by the senior editor of the Psychology, Crime & Law journal, who shared invaluable insights into the publication process and offered practical writing guidance.

In addition to structured learning, the event included dedicated writing time and opportunities for attendees to network and discuss future collaborations, strengthening the sense of community among researchers in this field. The workshop supported ECRs to progress towards publishing their research by providing them with the skills and confidence to navigate the publication process and share their findings effectively.

Post-event feedback was extremely positive, with all attendees expressing strong interest in future in-person and online writing retreats, as well as other research related events facilitated by Bournemouth University. The success of this workshop has created ongoing support and development opportunities for ECRs working on exploitation and violence research.

RSA event: Thurs 19th June – speakers confirmed – book now!

Join the BU Research Staff Association (RSA) for an exciting event on Thursday 19th June, Talbot Campus 10:00 – 14:30.  This in-person lunchtime event is designed to provide support, inspiration, and foster meaningful connections among research staff across all faculties.

We are delighted to welcome Professor Edwin van Teijlingen (FHSS), who brings extensive expertise in Public Health, Health Promotion, and the Organisation of Maternity Care. He will share insights on developing a research career both within and beyond academia.

Dr Michelle Heward (FST) will present a case study based on her experience with funding applications, sharing practical lessons learned and highlighting how to build on small pots of funding. The Research Development and Support Team (RDS) will lead a hands-on workshop on Getting Started with Grant Applications, offering tools and guidance to help researchers take the next steps in their research journey.

What to Expect

  • Expert advice on research career development and opportunities
  • Practical guidance on how to get started with grant applications
  • Insights from a case study, including practical tips
  • Panel and audience discussions

Open to all BU ‘research only’ staff, no matter where you are in your research journey.

For further information on this event please contact Pooja Shah shahp@bournemouth.ac.uk or Gladys Yinusa, yinusagg@bournemouth.ac.uk

BOOK YOUR PLACE HERE

Postgraduate Research Summer Social – 1 week to go!

PG research

1 week to go till the Postgraduate Research Summer Social. We’re so excited to welcome you to the Branksome Dene Room for an afternoon of patio games, delicious food and sunshine by the beach! 

We’ve booked this stunning location for the exclusive use of PGRs and Supervisors for the afternoon to unwind and reconnect up with your fellow researchers and academics.

The Doctoral College PGR events at Branksome Dene Room are always a hit so we hope you can join us!

We are pleased to offer a Greek style lunch menu including a pita with your choice of filling (chicken souvlaki, vegetarian or vegan) served with chips, a salad bar, teas, coffees and soft drinks! You are also welcome to bring your own refreshments to enjoy.

Register here

Ticket: £5

Please note there are limited spaces available, so please book as soon as possible if you would like to attend. 

If you have any questions, please do get in touch: pgrskillsdevelopment@bournemouth.ac.uk

LinkedIn: Doctoral College – Bournemouth University

X: @BUDocCollege | #BUDoctoralCollege

Postgraduate Research Summer Social – 2 weeks to go!

PG research

2 weeks to go till the Postgraduate Research Summer Social. We’re so excited to welcome you to the Branksome Dene Room for an afternoon of patio games, delicious food and sunshine by the beach! 

We’ve booked this stunning location for the exclusive use of PGRs and Supervisors for the afternoon to unwind and reconnect up with your fellow researchers and academics.

The Doctoral College PGR events at Branksome Dene Room are always a hit so we hope you can join us!

We are pleased to offer a Greek style lunch menu including a pita with your choice of filling (chicken souvlaki, vegetarian or vegan) served with chips, a salad bar, teas, coffees and soft drinks! You are also welcome to bring your own refreshments to enjoy.

Register here

Ticket: £5

Please note there are limited spaces available, so please book as soon as possible if you would like to attend. 

If you have any questions, please do get in touch: pgrskillsdevelopment@bournemouth.ac.uk

LinkedIn: Doctoral College – Bournemouth University

X: @BUDocCollege | #BUDoctoralCollege

RKEDF June Digest – development opportunities

Training


Book now for RKEDF training in June 2025 

Click on the titles to find further details and book your place 

RKEDF: Principal Investigation – Post Award for RKE 

Wednesday 4th June 13:00-14:30 – in person, Talbot Campus 

This session is aimed at any researcher who is, who plans to be, a Principal Investigator for an externally funded research or knowledge exchange project. By the end of the session, attendees will have a strong foundation of what to expect when being responsible for their awarded projects. Topics covered include:   

  • What is post award? • Roles and responsibilities • Systems
  • Key policies • Starting your awarded project • Making changes to your project and reporting • Hints and tips

Developing Policy Engagement for Impact 

Wednesday 11th June 09:00-13:30 – online 

Are you preparing an impact case study for REF 2029? Do you need expert advice on navigating the policy landscape to ensure your research reaches decision makers? If so, this online workshop is perfect for you.  Carys Davis, a public affairs and policy consultant from The Other Place Public Affairs Ltd., will lead this workshop. RDS’s Impact Team will be present to offer support and guidance.  Gain valuable insights and practical tips to effectively engage with policy makers and highlight your research. 

This workshop is primarily aimed at researchers working on impact case studies for REF 2029, who will be given priority for registration. If you’re unsure whether this is suitable for you, please consult your UOA impact champion.  This workshop will be held online via Zoom. The link will be sent out closer to the date. 

BRIAN drop in surgery 

Tuesday 17th June 13:00-15:00 – in person, BG-315, Lansdowne Campus 

This is an in person, 2 hour drop in surgery for questions or issues relating to BRIAN.  No question is a stupid question so pop in and ask.  No booking required. 

RSA: Getting Started, Securing Funding, and Advancing Your Career 

Thursday 19th June – 10:00 – 14:30 – in person, Talbot Campus 

This in-person event will take place over lunch and is dedicated to providing support, inspiration, and encouraging meaningful connections among research staff across all faculties.  There will be expert advice on getting started and securing funding, along with practical tips from peers who will share case study examples of successful grants and lessons learned. By the end of the session, you’ll have valuable tools to navigate funding opportunities and plan your next steps—whether in academia or beyond. It is also a great opportunity to connect with colleagues and be part of a supportive research community.  Open to all BU research staff, no matter where you are in your research journey. 

Getting your REF impact case study off the ground 

Thursday 26th June – 09:30 – 12:30, in person, Tabot Campus 

This practical workshop gives you the opportunity to plan your impact case study. Starting this process early can help to gain much-needed clarity, both about your impact project(s) and about expectations for the final product for REF2029. In this workshop, Bella Reichard will guide you through creating (1) a narrative arc for your impact case study, and (2) an action plan to progress and evidence your impacts.   

This workshop is for anyone who is considering preparing an impact case study for submission to REF2029. You may have submitted drafts to internal REF mock exercises in 2023 or 2024. You may be new to the process, in which case please let your relevant BU Impact Champion know that you’re interested in preparing a case study.  This workshop is not limited to a single person per potential case study. If several academics are collaborating on a project it can be very useful to attend together. 

Epigeum Research Skills Toolkit 

Do you want to refresh your researcher skills? Have a look at the Epigeum Research Skills Toolkit (on demand online modules).  Further information on how to access Epigeum courses can be found here.
 

Links for further RKE information and support are below: 

RKE SharePoint page: RKE – Home 

RKEDF SharePoint for development opportunities: Research and Knowledge Exchange Development Framework RKEDF – Home 

RKEDF Brightspace: Homepage – Research & Knowledge Exchange Development Framework  

Please help us in avoiding any waste of resources; make sure you can attend or cancel your booking prior to the session. For any further information, please contact RKEDF@bournemouth.ac.uk   

RSA: Getting Started, Securing Funding, and Advancing Your Career

Join the BU Research Staff Association (RSA) for the 2025 Away Day on Thursday 19th June, Talbot Campus 10:00 – 14:30

This in-person event will take place over lunch and is dedicated to providing support, inspiration, and encouraging meaningful connections among research staff across all faculties.

There will be expert advice on getting started and securing funding, along with practical tips from peers who will share case study examples of successful grants and lessons learned. By the end of the session, you’ll have valuable tools to navigate funding opportunities and plan your next steps—whether in academia or beyond. It is also a great opportunity to connect with colleagues and be part of a supportive research community.

Open to all BU ‘research only’ staff, no matter where you are in your research journey.

For further information on this event please contact Pooja Shah shahp@bournemouth.ac.uk or Gladys Yinusa, yinusagg@bournemouth.ac.uk

BOOK YOUR PLACE HERE

Enterprise and Innovation sessions for BU researchers

PG research

We are pleased to announce that Matt Desmier [Business Engagement and Knowledge Exchange Manager] will deliver two insightful sessions on Enterprise and Innovation. While these sessions have been specially arranged for the PGR community, all BU researchers are warmly invited to attend.

Communicating with Business and Personal Branding – REGISTER HERE

Tuesday 10 June 9.30-11.30 (Create LT, Fusion Building)

Whether you are planning an academic career, or a career in industry, you will be interacting with businesses and third sector organisations regularly. To do this successfully, it is vitally important to be able to communicate effectively and to build a personal brand. This session will teach you the crucial steps you need to communicate successfully with business: how to understand what their motivations are and align yours with theirs; recognise how you can add value; and know what language to use and when.

Alongside this, it’s vitally important to build credibility and relationships with business, to be visible in the spaces where they are. Predominately this means – but is by no way limited to – having an active presence on LinkedIn. Whilst the algorithm that powers this platform remains a closely guarded secret, this session will show you tried and tested ways to ensure it works in your favour and to create your personal brand.

Developing a Business Idea and Pitching – REGISTER HERE

Wednesday 11 June 9.30-11.30 (Create LT, Fusion Building)

The goal of the most of your interactions with industry will be to get them to do something for you. Whether that’s engage with your research, fund your new product idea, buy some of your consultancy or drop by to speak to your students.  Each ‘ask’ is a pitch and this needs careful crafting to get a positive response. Understanding how and when to pitch is a skill in and of itself. Thankfully it’s not as scary as it sounds. This session will give you the skills you need to pitch successfully.

To enable you to develop a business idea we’ll deliver training based on the two recognised frameworks: the Business Model Canvas and the Innovation Canvas. Both frameworks have been designed to enable individuals and teams to describe their ideas, identify areas that need more development, and understand what value will be delivered and to whom.

 

Best wishes,

The Doctoral College

Supervisory Lunchbite | ESRC South West Doctoral Training Partnership

PG research

ESRC South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP) Information Session

Are you involved in social science research?

Would you like to supervise of PhD student?

Are you interested in collaborating with the other universities, sharing best practice, resources and academic knowledge?

Would you like to find more?

 

We are pleased to announce a ‘lunchbite’ session oriented toward academic colleagues who are interested in future calls for the ESRC South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP).

This session is designed to provide more information about the SWDTP, the pathways which Bournemouth University belong to, the timelines for 2026 cohort applications, and aid supervisors with supporting potential applicants.

The SWDTP offers funding for research in eighteen different disciplinary and interdisciplinary pathways, spanning across the social sciences. BU is linked to 3 of those pathways:

To find out more, please join us at the following session:

  • Monday 2 June 2025 | 12-00 – 13:00 | Talbot Campus: Room F306

Register here

Best wishes,

The Doctoral College

EU Project FoodMAPP secondment to Gent University

Awarded & submitted bids, innovation, international, Knowledge Exchange

The EU Project FoodMAPP won by BU as coordinator has reached an exciting mid-point, with prototype solutions providing localised food supply transparency entering the stakeholder testing phase.

As a Staff Exchange (MSCA SE) project, the BU team led by Jeff Bray undertake 30 day secondments with our interdisciplinary industry and academic partners across Europe.

Jeff has today returned from a period of secondment to the Department of Agricultural Economics at Gent University (Belgium) to collaborate with Prof Hans De Steur and his research team. The secondment provided a rich opportunity for interdisciplinary exchange and discussion around Food Security Challenges and potential solutions across and beyond Europe. Future proposals, including the next Staff Exchange project, were scoped and progressed to continue successful and productive interdisciplinary research visits in the future.

Two new midwifery papers from CMWH

The latest issue of MIDIRS Midwifery Digest features two papers from CMWH members.

Laura SLaura Stedman reports on the global variance in screening approaches and diagnostic criteria for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). She explores the impact of these differences on policy recommendations and practice. Without a universally accepted screening criterion, the variance in approaches makes accurately calculating the prevalence of GDM difficult. Untreated GDM results in women being more likely to experience pre-eclampsia, caesarean birth or stillbirth, while babies are more likely to be born prematurely, macrosomic or large for gestational age.

Also in this issue, Maryam Malekian, a MRes student in CMWH, has had her scoping review protocol published. Maryam has recently completed the review looking at knowledge and attitudes of nulliparous women regarding breastfeeding. She presented this work at the Maternal, Parental and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit (MAINN) Conference in April and has submitted the findings for publication.

 

Congratulations to both authors.

References:

Stedman L, Angell C, Hundley VA. Gestational diabetes mellitus: evaluating the implications of applying international research into national policy and practice. MIDIRS Midwifery Digest, vol 35, no 2, June 2025, pp 141–147.

Malekian M, Hundley V, Irving M. A scoping review protocol of factors influencing breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes among non-pregnant, nulliparous women of reproductive age. MIDIRS Midwifery Digest, vol 35, no 2, June 2025, pp 179-182.