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Researchers from the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration for the North East and North Cumbria have contributed to a qualitative study to explore the reasons underlying the high mortality rates among people with multiple and complex needs.

Multiple and complex needs include issues of homelessness, substance misuse, repeat offending and mental health. People facing these issues experience severe health inequalities – the mortality rates in these groups is almost seven times higher for men than the general population and almost twelve times higher for women. The North East of England has the highest drug-related death rate of any region in England and Wales.

Fulfilling Lives is a charity that works to improve the lives of people with multiple and complex needs across Newcastle and Gateshead. A qualitative study developed by its Experts by Experience (peer researchers) network along with Fuse researchers aimed to explore the reasons underlying the high mortality rates among people with multiple and complex needs. In particular, the study aimed to pinpoint opportunities to identify people at-risk and to explore potential interventions that may be helpful in preventing early death. Focus groups were held with Experts by Experience as well as those working in the health, social care and voluntary sectors that support people with multiple and complex needs.