Yesterday I attended a research meeting about a project in which we are proposing a screening tool for identifying depression in young people. I became conscious of the reality of sorting out financial commitments before any research can be agreed. This is an area of difficulty as NHS organisations in the UK may not be able to fund research.

Therefore the researcher needs to move to Harvard! It is important for the researcher to be persistent and prepare to adjust the methods to be more favourable for a successful submission. In the UK different NHS trusts will have their own approach to certain projects. I think a simple well thought out project which has the involvement of young people will be most favourable. 

We have to pursue the highest ethical standards. In research with children and young people there is a sense that approaches need to tried in the general population of other populations first. I cannot disclose details of the project mentioned above but my current areas of interest in research are:

1. Screening tool for depression- Quantitative study i.e. lots of numbers to analyse

2. Comparing professional stances of senior social workers and senior professionals in child and adolescent mental health in child protection work focussing on the goal of improving professional working practice- Qualitative Study i.e. analysing interview content

3. Book on Substance Misuse in Young people, imparting aspects of clinical practice, managing difficult situations and engagement

4. What are the key areas of engagement in working with young people and their families?

5. Development of effective practice in helping young people under the age of 30 years survive the opioid crisis in Vancouver by offering support to local experts and service providers in British Columbia.

6. Studying the trends of substance misuse in young people in the UK and tracking serious cases relating to Metonitazene use and Ketamine use.

7. Publication of depression audits over the years with emphasis on describing new research questions

8. Review of Ketamine as a therapy for young people presenting with depression and complex trauma

It is good to be open about research ideas and the figure out how to shape with the help of people around us.