Jigsaw Secures European Funding for Mental Health Research

Jigsaw has secured European Horizon funding for our research work aimed at improving access to healthcare and mental healthcare amongst marginalised communities.

The Europe-wide project, involving leading research partner organisations across seven countries, is called EQUICARES.

The 4-year project will see the design and implementation of nine “Smart Health Labs” across Europe, focusing on supporting vulnerable populations, including older people, young people, and migrants.

Jigsaw’s Research & Evaluation Team will work closely with all nine pilot labs to develop a data collection tool, provide expert guidance, and lead on data analysis to better understand how vulnerable groups experience and engage with mental health services.

This is an overview of the project’s key objectives:

• EQUICARES aims to improve access to innovative and sustainable mental health and care services for people in vulnerable situations through research, co-creation, and policy solutions.
• It will deliver innovative mental health solutions in diverse socioeconomic settings, piloted through Smart Health Labs.
• The project will also conduct cost analyses and develop an Inclusive Mental Health and Care Policy Dashboard to inform future service design.

Dr Jeff Moore, Director of Research & Evaluation at Jigsaw, said:

“The youth mental health crisis is undeniable—too many young people still face barriers to accessing the care they need.

“EQUICARES offers a vital opportunity to develop innovative solutions that can break down these barriers and ensure more young people receive the mental health support they deserve.”