​

How do we involve people with developmental or long term health conditions, their family members and local communities in our research?  

 

This is a question many of us ask ourselves as we look to carry out our academic research. 

​

Traditionally, disability research has been inspired and translated from the medical model of research. Recently, calls from the scientific community and funding bodies across the country call for more inclusive methodologies, and research questions that address public health and directly impact on communities.

 

Participatory research holds the promise of more socially transparent science. Strong collaborations between scientists and community members are of great importance. This is only possible if they are involved throughout all phases to draw on insights into lived experiences to create research that is increasingly innovative, holistic, accurate, and accessible. Partners contribute their expertise to enhance understanding of a given phenomenon and integrate the knowledge gained with action to benefit the community involved.

 

Recognising the need to overcome the obstacles of traditional university- and discipline-oriented research approaches, we are hosting a one day seminar in order to disscuss ways of participatory research with individuals with developmental/learning or long-term health conditions, their families, schools and the local community. Our first event took place at Denys Holland Lecture Theatre, on the 20th November 2018. More than 70 people participated.

​

Our future event aims to serve as a platform where members of UCL staff, students from all levels of academic study, as well as members of the public can hold research discussions, explore possibilities, and discuss challenges of participatory research in academia. 

​

​

 

​

​

​

​