TO PARTICIPATE…

You will need to meet the following criteria:

1. Be in your first year of undergraduate study at either: UEA, University of Cambridge or University of Suffolk,

and,

2. Have at least one unseen disability; this can be formally diagnosed, you can be awaiting diagnosis or you my may self-identify as having a condition or set of symptoms.

You may not consider yourself disabled but still have a condition which would meet the inclusion criteria for the project. A good place to check if you’re not sure, is to have a look at the list at the bottom of this link: https://hdsunflower.com/uk/disabilities-form.

If you’re still unsure and would like to take part, drop me an email and we can discuss if you would meet the requirements.

FAQs

Click on each question to read the answers

What will I do as part of the project?

Over your first year of university, you will take photographs of spaces which are relevant and meaningful to your experience as a student.

You will reflect on the images you take, and keep a journal of your thoughts, feelings and ideas.

I will contact you regularly to check-in, provide you with some prompts and discuss the project progress. Usually this will be about once a month, but we can agree a schedule that works around your commitments and assignments.

After you’ve finished your first year, we will meet to discuss your photographs and reflections.

How will I take the photographs?

If you’re happy to take digital photographs and use your own devices, such as a smart phone, tablet or digital camera, then you are encouraged to do so.

If you would prefer to use an analogue format, such as instant camera, 35mm film or disposable camera, then this can be supported. We can chat about what you will need, and any costs associated with analogue photography will be covered by the project.

How will I do the journaling?

Usually, I will set up a notebook for you in the OneNote app which you can access through your student Office365 account. If you’ve not used this before I can help you set it up, explain how to use it and ensure you can access it across any devices you wish to use.

If you would prefer to journal by hand, you can use a notebook, scrap book or sketch book too, which you can be provided with.

Again, we can chat about what feels most practical and natural for you to ensure the project is manageable and achievable.

What is an unseen disability?

An unseen disability is one which would not be known without knowing it exists; meaning that it can be concealed or you can pass as being non-disabled, e.g.:

Neurodivergence, such as Austism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, etc.
Mental health conditions, such as personality disorders, depressions, OCD, generalised anxiety disorder, etc.
Long-term physical health conditions, such as Chron’s disease, Ehlers-danlos syndrome, Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, etc.
Sensory impairments, such as hearing or vision impairments which do not require aids.
Mobility impairments, such as ME or Ehlers-danlos syndrome where they do not require aids.

How do I know if I have an unseen disability?

A good place to check if you’re not sure, is to have a look at the list at the bottom of this link: https://hdsunflower.com/uk/disabilities-form.

What else do I need to know?

Have a look around this site, there’s more information on the project and if you still want to know more, then do get in touch with me, I will be happy to talk to you, answer any questions and ensure you have all the information you require before making a decision to participate.

Sounds good, how do I join?

Great! If you’d like to join the project, then the first thing to do is drop me an email. We can talk through the project, my expectations and your needs.

Then if we both decide that the project is suitable for you, you will be asked to complete an informed consent form. This will outline clearly what you and I are agreeing to do as part of the research, provide you with important information to support you throughout the project and explain how your data will be stored and used as part of the research.