Research

CAST conducts research in collaboration with universities, clinicians, and other partners.
We aim to enrich and diversify our understanding of psychological trauma and its treatment as it relates to individuals and communities at risk.

Research into Mental Health Responses to Major Incidents

The Mill Study

The MILL study is an NIHR-funded research project on the health and wellbeing response to major incidents, led by CAST’s Director, Dr. John Green.

The Chief Investigator for the study is Dr. John Green, and the Study Sponsor is CNWL. The study is funded by the National Institute for Health Research (IRAS Number 292286).

The MILL study aims to draw lessons from the health and wellbeing response to the Grenfell Tower Fire (2017) to improve how statutory bodies plan for, and respond to, future major incidents. It primarily focuses on the response of NHS organisations and the local council, examining health and wellbeing aspects. This is not a study of fire safety, cladding, rehousing, or the immediate aftermath of the fire.

The findings from this project are expected to significantly inform future major incident response planning both in the UK and internationally. Current UK emergency planning guidance largely addresses the immediate response phase (weeks) following a major incident, with less attention to long-term (years) recovery efforts.

This evaluative case study integrates qualitative evidence from official documentation, interviews with key informants, and quantitative data on activities, funding, and outputs. Interviews will involve 35–45 participants, including individuals from voluntary sector organisations and those with insight into the statutory response.

Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) is a key element of this project. Results will be shared with local and national organisations and residents. A final report will be widely disseminated in partnership with PPI collaborators, and full results will be published in scientific journals.

Pilot Study on Reducing Trauma Symptoms in Ukrainian Refugee Children

At CAST, we are dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of psychological trauma through collaborative research with universities, clinicians, and community organisations. In 2023, CAST was awarded a NOCLOR starter grant to pilot a study aimed at reducing trauma symptoms in Ukrainian refugee children affected by conflict and displacement. This grant was awarded to CAST Associate Ankita Guchait, who spearheaded the project and played a pivotal role in its success. The pilot study laid the groundwork for further funding and a longitudinal collaboration with St. Mary’s Ukrainian School to track the progress and well-being of these children over time.

The study focused on designing and testing trauma-informed interventions tailored to the unique experiences of displaced children. A multidisciplinary approach combined qualitative research, such as interviews and focus groups with children, parents, and educators, with quantitative assessments of psychological symptoms and resilience. Initial findings identified promising strategies for reducing trauma symptoms and enhancing emotional resilience, which have informed the expanded research.

Community engagement has been central to this work, with St. Mary’s Ukrainian School ensuring the study reflects the lived experiences of the community. The project’s emphasis on collaboration has strengthened partnerships between researchers, educators, and support organisations. Findings are being shared with educational institutions, healthcare providers, refugee support organisations, and the academic community through publications and conferences.

The ultimate goal of this research is to inform best practices for supporting refugee children and to contribute to the global understanding of trauma recovery in displaced populations.

If you or your organisation is interested in collaborating with CAST, please contact us at [email protected].

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Contact

If you have a question or would like to work with CAST email us at [email protected]

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