This painting was created by Linda McGowan as part of the ‘managed alcohol programmes (MAPs): Exploring the potential of a novel intervention to help prevent infection (COVID-19) for people experiencing alcohol dependence and homelessness’ study. The study was led by researchers at the University of Stirling in partnership with The Salvation Army and explored the potential of MAPs to prevent infection/reduce spread of COVID-19 for people experiencing homelessness and alcohol dependence based in Scotland. Throughout the study the team worked with artist Linda McGowan to create a series of paintings portraying the key themes from the study, as the research team were eager to ensure study outputs had a visual and creative dimension to engage with a wide range of audiences and bring in a strong lived experience dimension. Linda attended several study meetings where she listened to the discussion of the issues/concerns that were being raised throughout data collection. The process resulted in a series of ten paintings which have been displayed at multiple art exhibitions and within academic papers and research briefings.

Text by Hannah Carver.

Copyright is held by the Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research at the University of Stirling.

Thanks to Iain Smith for suggesting this image.

We are always looking for interesting and visually appealing images for the cover of the Journal and would welcome suggestions or pictures, which should be sent to Dr Allan Beveridge, British Journal of Psychiatry, 21 Prescot Street, London, E1 8BB, UK or [email protected].