Challenges and opportunities for involving and engaging patients and the public, as an early career researcher

At Health Data Research UK (HDR UK), we are passionate about embedding the patient and public voice at the heart of what we do. We are also committed to demonstrating the value of Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) in research and supporting those who are interested in incorporating PPIE into their work.

Early career researchers (ECRs) may experience unique challenges when incorporating PPIE into their research projects. Understanding these challenges is crucial for providing targeted support and encouraging a culture of inclusivity and collaboration in research.

Improving PPIE in health data research for early career researchers

We are embarking on a mission to explore PPIE within health data research, from the perspective of ECRs. PPIE involves the active participation of patients, carers, and the public in planning, conducting, and disseminating research, to ensure that research is relevant and reflects the needs and priorities of patients and the public it aims to benefit.

We are interested in learning more about ECRs’ experiences and challenges that may have been faced when looking to incorporate PPIE into their work, to improve support and explore potential solutions.

Better understanding your experiences and challenges

We are conducting a survey to gain deeper insights into the PPIE experiences of ECRs, identify challenges, and explore potential solutions. Whether you are familiar with PPIE or just beginning to explore its possibilities, your insights are invaluable. Understanding your experience of PPIE and the challenges you face will inform the future development of better resources and training opportunities. Together, we can empower and support ECRs like yourself to pioneer meaningful research for public benefit

Who should take part?

Whether you are an intern, a doctoral candidate, a recent post-doc, or transitioning into independent research roles, your voice matters, regardless of whether HDR UK directly funds you or not. Please take a moment to participate in our survey; your responses have the potential to influence health data research for years to come.

Let’s make a difference together!

We invite you to take part and contribute to positive change. Your participation can lay the groundwork for a time where health data research is more inclusive, impactful, and responsive to the needs of all. Take the first step towards shaping the future!

The survey will take approximately 15 to 20 minutes to complete and will close on Monday 8 July 2024 at 23:59 BST.

Take part in our survey

Acknowledgements

This initiative, led by the HDR UK PPIE and Training teams, has been made possible through the support of representatives from our community, including ECRs and HDR UK’s Public Advisory Board members. We are thankful for their dedication and efforts and look forward to continuing collaboration to ensure the insights gained from this survey translate into tangible impacts within our HDR UK community and beyond.