NIHR Community Engagement Report
Summary of report content
Healthwatch Swindon contributed to a report by NIHR Clinical Research Network West of England. NIHR wanted to understand particular communities’ perceptions of health and care research. Healthwatch Swindon undertook engagement with users of four community fridges and cafes in Swindon. They spoke to 100 people.
The report identifies benefits of participating in research, including better understanding and management of personal health and conditions and contributing to the greater good.
It also identifies barriers to participation in research, including lack of knowledge, engagement fatigue, lack of agency and control over research, accessibility and recognition.
The report contains six overall recommendations about engaging with organisation long term, making connections, using accessible language, addressing the power imbalance, value people and organisations and match the approach to the community.