In response to COVID-19 a team of researchers in the University of Limerick have launched a new study https://tinyurl.com/UL-COSPACE to explore how students aged 4 – 18 years and their families are coping during COVID-19 to identify what advice and support can protect their mental health during a period of rapidly evolving pressures. The study has been featured on RTE’s Drivetime and in the Irish Examiner.

The study entitled Co-SPACE (COVID-19 Supporting Parents, Adolescents and Children during Epidemics) is linked to a study of the same name in the UK being led by University of Oxford. The first survey will take about 25 mins, and you will be asked to participate in follow up surveys (voluntary) of about 15-20 minutes at monthly intervals. The study is anonymous and has full ethical approval from UL. To complete the survey or for more information click here https://tinyurl.com/UL-COSPACE

Once they receive the first 500 responses, they will provide an update of the findings so that they can advise agencies in real time. Keep an eye on www.i-teach.ie and our social media platforms (@COSPACEIreland- Twitter) for updates and information. If you would like to learn more about how to support your child during this crisis, you can find information here: https://emergingminds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/COVID19_advice-for-parents-and-carers_20.3_.pdf

With your help in completing this survey, we can learn about the needs of children and young people and ensure that better and more effective supports are available in the future. Please also share with any other parent who might be interested.

Thank you in advance for supporting this research. If you have any questions you can email Jennifer.mcmahon@ul.ie