Melissa Ombija
DARE Project: Examining Care Work from The Perspective of Care Workers
Program(s) of Study: Human Rights and Equity Studies, Refugee and Migration Studies
Project Supervisor: Ethel Tungohan
I hope this research highlights the indispensable voices of care workers and compels the health care management and the government to integrate their feedback into strategies for improving care quality. This includes implementing initiatives that support care workers and enable them to care for themselves while they continue to risk their lives for others.
Project Description:
My research project, "Examining Care Work from the Perspective of Care Workers," delves into the lived experiences of direct care workers, with particular emphasis on their health and safety outcomes and labor conditions during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to uncover the challenges and risks faced by these essential workers, and to explore ways to enhance their safety and overall welfare. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, I have analyzed a range of media articles and relevant literature to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current care work regime. Through this research, I seek to provide valuable insights that will support researchers, care advocates, and policymakers in developing more effective and responsive policies. By centering the voices, needs, and demands of care workers, the study aims to contribute to the creation of impactful policy interventions that address the critical issues within the care work sector. Ultimately, the goal of this study is to inform and shape the future of care work provisions, ensuring that they are both equitable and effective in meeting the needs of both care workers and those they serve.The Dean’s Award for Research Excellence (DARE) – Undergraduate enables our students to meaningfully engage in research projects supervised by LA&PS faculty members. Find out more about DARE.