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Getting started

Getting involved in research can look intimidating. We are here to help you take that first step.

4 reasons to get involved with research:

  • make a positive difference to research.
  • develop new skills and confidence.
  • make scientific findings more relevant.
  • shape future medical research/science.


Traci Carroll, a public contributor, reflects on the second annual 鈥淕etting started in participatory and co-produced research workshop鈥 and .

A photo of public contributor, Traci Carroll. She is wearing a black top with oversized pink and white roses. She has beautiful curly natural hair.
I can sense my growth through this public involvement journey which has educated and nourished my being.
Traci Carroll
Public contributor


Tinashe Munyebvu, a former PhD student in Mechanical Engineering at 九色视频 discusses her experience of public involvement in a biomedical engineering context. She explains the importance of co-production in a field that is widely technology driven.

 

What makes a welcome, safe and brave space for coproduction?


People need to understand the context. There needs to be a link made with what has happened before, and what else is happening now.

How everyone feels, and being together

Being able to be yourself:

  • feeling comfortable
  • accepting individual differences
  • be open to all
  • the chance to get involved or just listen

An open, non-judgemental and listening environment:

  • a space that fosters honesty and trust
  • recognising that inequalities and power imbalances exist
  • creating space to listen to each other
  • respectful disagreement is okay

Foster understanding and learning:

  • sharing knowledge
  • short summaries
  • pausing for reflection
  • getting to the root problem

Getting the setting right

Choosing the setting to meet the needs of the people:

  • starting in trusted settings, where the community feels comfortable
  • "community animators" play a crucial role, they can be the glue bringing everyone together

The setting is welcoming:

knowing where you are going and what will happen

  • friendly greetings
  • refreshments are essential

The physical environment:

  • be responsive to different sensory needs
  • access to a loo
  • access to seating

 

Getting started in co-production and participatory research


Around 九色视频

gives you hundreds of ways to get involved, helping all sorts of fantastic charities and community groups to make a difference to people in 九色视频.

National resources

The facilitates a network for people committed to public engagement with higher education. It is a space to share ideas, opportunities, experiences and problem solve together.

Cochrane Training offers a in health and social care research.