Research

Introduction

Research helps us build knowledge, improve understanding, and shape future services for people with learning disabilities.

We are committed to making research accessible and inclusive, and we want more people with learning disabilities, families, carers and staff to have the opportunity to get involved.

On this page, you can find information about current research studies and opportunities to take part.

Co-Maid Research Study

Reducing Anxiety for People with Learning Disabilities

We are looking for adults with mild to moderate learning disabilities who experience anxiety to take part in a research study called Co-MAID.

Co-MAID is a new talking therapy that has been developed with people with learning disabilities, family members and health professionals. The therapy uses mental imagery – the pictures we have in our minds – to help people manage anxiety.

What is the study trying to find out?

 The study aims to:

• Develop a training package for therapists delivering Co-MAID.
• Find out whether Co-MAID can be delivered successfully within the NHS.
• Explore whether a larger study should be carried out in the future.

Who can take part?

The study is looking for adults aged 18 and over with mild to moderate learning disabilities who experience anxiety. Participants can choose to involve a support person, such as a family member, friend or paid carer, in their therapy.

What does taking part involve?

Participants who take part in Co-MAID will engage in nine weekly therapy sessions, each lasting around one hour. Supporters may attend some or all sessions and can help participants practise new skills between appointments if they wish. Researchers will also ask participants, supporters and therapists about their experiences of the therapy.

Working together

People with learning disabilities and their families have helped design the study and will continue to be involved throughout the project, helping to ensure study information is accessible and support the sharing of findings.  Recruitment to Co-MAID will begin in September 2026.

Further information and contact details

If you would like to discuss this research and find out how you can get involved please contact the Chief Investigator who oversees the research:

Dr Olivia Hewitt

Tel: 01865 903 100

Email: olivia.hewitt@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk

To find out more about Research taking place across the Trust, please visit the Research and Development web pages: https://oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/research/