A retrospective, phenomenological study examining how care experience influences diet and eating practices.

Abstract

Background

There is a silence regarding care experienced adults and their eating practices during their time in care. Research has suggested a connection between care experience and issues surrounding diet and eating practices (Kelly & Ogden, 2016).

Aim

The aim of the proposed study is to explore the lived experiences of adults over 18years who have been in the care system, about diet and eating practices during their time in care. This is a fundamental activity of daily living which has vast impact on health and wellbeing.

Methodology and methods

This is a qualitative study, using descriptive phenomenology based on Husserlian principles. Two semi structured interviews with eight care experienced adults were completed to gain in depth insight.

Findings

The findings show the ongoing impact of the trauma experienced by these individuals. Participants felt that trauma influenced their relationship with diet and eating practices, with a broader acknowledgement of its impact on all areas of their lives.
The secondary long-term aspect of the findings is the concept of protective food factors. This incorporates the relationships and experiences which the participants felt had protected them from further harm in relation to their eating practices.
Two key themes were constructed from the participants time within the care settings, ‘not my home’ and ‘food as an opportunity’. These are contrasting themes but show the different feelings, events and relationships children and young people can experience living in the care system. The final theme was feeling unprepared for adulthood, participants felt they were poorly prepared for budgeting, preparing food and eating well.

Implication and recommendations

The participants in this study were clear that things needed to be improved as this foundational aspect of life is shaped and influenced by care experience. However, we do not yet know enough about what change could meet the needs highlighted. Therefore, some recommended further research has been suggested.

Date of Award	27 Feb 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Northumbria University
Supervisor	Lynette Shotton (Supervisor) & Richelle Duffy (Supervisor)