On 21 October 2024, HDR UK hosted its first-ever PPIE Celebration event. This milestone brought together public contributors, PPIE leads, and staff to celebrate the power of public voices in shaping health data research. Here is the story of how it unfolded and why it matters. 

HDR UK's Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement team networking with public contributors at the event.
All photography copyright Jon Parker Lee, Manchester Photographer

Co-production at its best

This event wasn’t just planned for the public—it was planned with them. Over a year, the Event Planning Group (a mix of HDR UK staff and public contributors) met nine times to design an agenda that reflected both achievements and future aspirations.

The theme, ‘Health Data Research for All of Us: Celebrating Public Voices, Making a Difference’, was chosen through an iterative, bottom-up process, ensuring it resonated with attendees and aligned with current research trends. Despite challenges like capacity constraints, the group remained committed to delivering an event that was both meaningful and engaging. Their dedication paid off! 

A day to remember

Held at etc.venues in Manchester, the event welcomed 120 attendees (51 in person, 69 online). The morning plenary sessions, accessible online and in person, set the stage with reflections on the impact of public involvement in health data research. The afternoon, exclusively in person, provided attendees with the opportunity to engage in interactive workshops, networking sessions, and thought-provoking discussions on key topics like:

  • artificial Intelligence and technology in health data research,
  • equality, diversity, and inclusion,
  • partnerships with industry, and
  • the future of PPIE guidance in health data.  

A highlight of the day was the showcase of projects, where public contributors and researchers demonstrated how their collaborations had led to real-world impact. This not only celebrated achievements but also inspired new ideas and collaborations.

Jan Speechley presenting at the Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement event.

Inclusive engagement

The venue was chosen for its accessibility and proximity to public transport. Attendees represented a diverse mix of ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds, reflecting the importance of inclusivity in research. To ensure everyone felt comfortable and accommodated for, individual needs were collected at registration and quiet and prayer rooms were made available. Travel expenses, including caring costs when needed, were reimbursed. 

This thoughtful approach created a space where attendees could rest, pray, network, and share their lived experiences. Inclusivity wasn’t just a goal—it was the heartbeat of the event.  

What did attendees think?

The post-event evaluation revealed that 79% rated their experience as ‘Very Satisfied’, and 90% praised the in-person venue and facilities. However, online engagement received mixed feedback —while some appreciated the accessibility and content, others noted a lack of interaction with attendees.

Key takeaways from the feedback emphasised the value of networking, the impact of engaging presentations, and the importance of making sessions interactive —both in-person and online.

All photography copyright Jon Parker Lee, Manchester Photographer

What’s next?

Beyond celebration, the event served as an opportunity for reflection. Attendees shared relevant demographic details and their feedback, helping to shape future PPIE initiatives at HDR UK. The enthusiasm and engagement throughout the day reaffirmed that public voices are essential in shaping the future of health data research. 

The success of this first PPIE Celebration Event marked the beginning of a new tradition—one that will continue to evolve, ensuring that public involvement remains at the heart of HDR UK’s mission. 

Want to be part of the journey? Sign up to HDR UK Voices today and help shape the future of health data research!

Learn more about HDR UK Voices and get involved

Group photo at Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement event.
All photography copyright Jon Parker Lee, Manchester Photographer

Thank you!

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the incredible public members whose contributions were the backbone of this event:

Aisha Kekere-Ekun, Anthony Cope, Helen Grice, Karen Mooney, and Munisa Hashimi. 

A special shoutout to the dedicated members of our HDR UK community who made it all happen:

Abbey Hart, Amy Hodgkinson, Anna Woolman, Doreen Tembo, Laura Gonzalez, Mita Vaghji, Sally Boylan, Samaira Khan, Sian Aggett, Tracy Jackson, Westley Igbo.  

We are also deeply grateful to the speakers who brought their expertise and passion to the stage.

  • From the HDR UK community: Christopher Yau, Doreen Tembo, Jan Speechley, Matthew Tosh, Munisa Hashimi, Natalie Fitzpatrick, Samaira Khan, and Tracy Jackson.
  • And to our invited guests: Barbara Czynikowska, David James, and Sergio Diaz.