UNCOVERING THE UNSEEN STRAIN OF CARE
Researchers at Queen’s are pioneering ways to better understand and support those who care for loved ones with cancer. Professor Martin Dempster, Professor of Psychology Applied to Health & Illness, explores the psychological wellbeing of informal carers; from adolescents balancing school with caring responsibilities, to families navigating the emotional and practical demands of life-limiting cancers such as oesophageal cancer. His work ensures that the voices of carers, often hidden from formal support systems, are recognised in healthcare research, practice, and policy.
Research Challenge
MAKING THE INVISIBLE VISIBLE
Informal carers are central to the cancer journey, but too often they remain overlooked. Young carers in particular may not self-identify as carers and therefore miss out on vital support. In complex illnesses such as oesophageal cancer, late diagnoses and demanding treatments create unique pressures for carers that are not always acknowledged by healthcare systems. Understanding these challenges, and finding effective ways to address them, requires research that is sensitive, inclusive, and rooted in lived experience.
Our Approach
PSYCHOLOGY IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LIVED EXPERIENCE
Professor Dempster’s research bridges psychology and clinical practice, with a strong focus on collaboration.
Adolescent Carers – Using interviews and focus groups, his research uncovers how young people experience role conflict, stress, and isolation, and what resources could best support them.
Cancer Networks – As part of the All Ireland Cancer Network – Oesophageal (AllCaN Oesophageal), he ensures that carers’ psychological and emotional needs are fully integrated into cancer research and service planning.
Community Collaboration – Working closely with charities such as OG Cancer NI and Cancer Fund for Children, he co-produces research with carers and families, ensuring outcomes are practical and directly relevant.
Applied Innovation – From guidance tools for teachers supporting children with health challenges, to improving healthcare training on carer awareness, his work translates into tangible change.
"When we think about cancer, we often focus on the patient. But the hidden story is the impact on families, especially young people stepping into caring roles. My research aims to give those voices the recognition they deserve and ensure support systems reflect their reality."
- Professor Martin Dempster, Queen’s University Belfast
What impact did it make?
TRANSFORMING HOW HEALTHCARE SEES CARERS
- Shaped how healthcare providers and charities recognise and respond to the needs of young and informal carers.
- Informed the design of carer-inclusive practices in cancer care.
- Strengthened cross-border collaboration on patient and carer experiences through AllCaN Oesophageal.
- Supported the development of emotionally literate healthcare systems that address resilience, identity, and burden in informal care.
- Contributed to public and policy awareness of the hidden role of carers in cancer contexts.
Our impact
Impact related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Learn more about Queen’s University’s commitment to nurturing a culture of sustainability and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through research and education.
