Help increase research opportunities for under-served groups

Research Engagement Network

What is it about?

MHNC is working with Northamptonshire ICB, NHFT, the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), Healthwatch West Northamptonshire, Healthwatch North Northamptonshire, NBCT, BAK UP CIC, Albany House and Danes Camp Medical Centres, and the University of Northampton to deliver this year’s Research Engagement Network, funded by NHS England. We will be promoting opportunities (for adults) to participate in research studies to communities across Northamptonshire.

What’s the aim?

The aim is to engage more people, particularly from underrepresented communities, in research.

We know there is a prevalence of white, older people who get involved in research. Without diverse participants in research, there is a risk that research outcomes will not be as effective across diverse population groups and that research trials will not be designed to meet the needs of a diverse population.

What are we going to be doing?

Encouraging everyone to register with Be Part of Research, managed by NIHR. By signing up, you can find out about health and social care research studies that matter to you and offer to your time and expertise as a participant in research.
We want to make the most of our reach across our Members and partners to take the message to people who wouldn’t usually be encouraged to share their experiences. We’ll recruit a team of paid Research Champions that can help us promote research to communities who are traditionally underrepresented in research, but you’ll also find us at events, in GP surgeries, supermarkets, libraries, and community hubs.

How can you help?

Sign up to Be Part of Research via the QR code. This tracks the number of people signing up from Northamptonshire, which helps us measure the success of our Research Engagement Network.
Get in touch with Kathryn (Kate) Price, our Research Engagement Coordinator, to learn more about the Research Champion role and how you can help us promote research to the communities you work with. We would love to attend any community events you have coming up in February, March or early April and talk about the benefits of taking part in research, display our banner and give out leaflets.