New Research Study Seeks to Improve Support for Older Women Experiencing Harmful Relationships

Published on: 29 April 2026

A new national research project, A-PATH, is inviting women aged 60 and over to take part in a study exploring how to improve support for those who have experienced—or may be experiencing—harmful or controlling behaviour from a partner or former partner.

Funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and led by University College London (UCL) in collaboration with partners including the University of Bristol, Swansea University, Hourglass, the Women’s Institute (WI), and Queen Mary University of London, the study aims to better understand what types of support are most effective for older women.

Participants who join the study will have the opportunity to try one of two types of support:

Practical Support, which helps individuals understand their options and access relevant services.
Practical + Emotional Support, which includes practical help alongside additional sessions focused on emotional and psychological wellbeing.

In addition to receiving support, participants will be invited to share their views on what makes it easier or harder to access help, contributing valuable insights that will help shape future services and wellbeing programmes tailored to older women.

Dr Phuong Leung, part of the research team, emphasised the importance of lived experience in guiding the study: “Hearing directly from women about what works—and what doesn’t—is essential to improving the support available.”

Women interested in taking part, or those supporting someone who may be eligible, are encouraged to get in touch with the research team via email at phuong.leung@ucl.ac.uk or by phone on 07435 561949.

This study represents an important step toward ensuring that older women receive the understanding, care, and tailored support they need to live safely and well.

Please get in touch with Iain iain@ehcvs.org.uk for accessible versions. Click on leaflet preview and download it.