Using philosophy to understand the complexities of care and the challenges of supporting and preserving autonomy in care contexts.
The Essex Autonomy Project is a research and knowledge-exchange initiative based in the School of Philosophy and Art History at the University of Essex. We use the tools of philosophy to explore the challenges associated with front-line practice in medicine, psychiatry, social work and law, particularly in the area of decision-making capacity. The project is led by philosophers, in collaboration with multi-disciplinary researchers, practitioners, policy-makers and activists.
Read More about The Essex Autonomy ProjectCOVID-19
Human Rights in Care Homes
In a recent research project, Professor Wayne Martin and Professor Sabine Michalowski investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on respect for human rights in care homes. Using the impact of COVID-19 as a case study, the research team are now developing recommendations for policy changes, which seek to support the upholding of human rights in care homes.
Key areas of research included the use of “Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation” orders, the transfer of unwell patients to acute-care hospital facilities, and restrictions on the movements of residents.
Learn More about Article 12Autonomy Summer School
Summer 2022
The 2022 Autonomy Project Summer School will be held on 27th, 28th and 29th July, at Wivenhoe House Hotel on the University of Essex's Colchester campus.
This year's summer school will be face-to-face and socially distanced. Early registration closes on 20th April.
Learn More about Summer School2022 Summer School in Summer School
Browse our research articles, reports and briefing papers.
Find information on our consultancy on issues around mental capacity, decision-making, risk assessment and CPRD compliance.
Arrange workplace training on current research, legal developments and the ethical issues surrounding the idea of autonomy in professional contexts.
