National Centre for Remote and Rural Health and Care: Information Hub

Nestled in a rural area near a naval base northwest of Glasgow, the GST supports veterans and their families as they navigate life after military service. Veterans often face challenges of loss of structure, isolation, and difficulties adjusting to civilian life. GST addresses this through social opportunities, community integration, and tailored support.

With growing numbers of younger veterans transitioning into civilian workplaces, GST’s work is more critical than ever. Your research will help extend their peer-led research, showcase outcomes, and explore lessons that can be applied to rural primary care and community services.

Veterans in rural areas can present with complex health and social needs that require coordinated, person-centred support. By fostering stronger connections between community-based initiatives like GST and the wider primary care system, we can ensure earlier identification of issues, more holistic care pathways, and improved health and wellbeing outcomes for veterans and their families.

• A fully funded research project where you will work alongside Prof. Sarah-Anne Munoz, an experienced rural health researcher, as your mentor, during 2025.
• A chance to develop research skills in a supportive environment, perfect for those looking to build research experience, return to research after a break or expand their existing experience into peer-led research.
• Invaluable professional development by working on a meaningful, real-world project, producing:
  • Case studies showcasing GST’s impact.
  • A policy briefing exploring how findings can inform primary and community health services.
  • Outcomes to share with NHS stakeholders, the National Centre, and GST to enhance visibility and influence.

We are seeking:

• Practitioners (GPs, nurses, allied health professionals, etc.) currently based in rural primary care or community settings.
• Passion for improving rural health outcomes.
• Curiosity and a willingness to learn research skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with veterans and community stakeholders.
• Ability to dedicate approximately 16 to 32 hours per month to the research project for the duration of 2025.
• Ability to travel and attend in person research meetings in Garelochhead as mutually agreed.
• Lived experience of the military and or working with older people would be an advantage.

• Your time and expenses, up to approximately £15,000 depending on your time input (payable to your NHS Board, GP Practice or voluntary sector employer).
• Full mentorship support from Prof. Sarah-Anne Munoz to guide you through the research process.

This project is an opportunity to:

• Build confidence in conducting research with mentorship.
• Contribute to work that directly supports veterans, their families, and rural communities.
• Develop transferable skills that can enhance your daily practice and career.
• Be part of a project that has national relevance in shaping community-based health solutions for veterans.
• Contribute as co-author to research outputs such as journal papers and conference presentations.

Want to apply? Follow this link to our brief online application form:

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=veDvEDCgykuAnLXmdF5JmkPMRf4vViJNvdD8a2AtKNRUNkhGSDkyTlRFMVNROFlEV1RVUkQ1MlVKNi4u

We are accepting applications until 9am on Monday 17 February 2025.

For further information or an informal discussion, contact:

Prof. Sarah-Anne Munoz
Head of Programme, National Centre for Remote and Rural Health and Care

Email: Sarah-anne.munoz@nhs.scot