Working with the Community Interest Company, Pathways Associates and People First Merseyside, and other academic collaborators, to co-develop research training for people with learning disabilities.

The aim of this work is to provide people with learning disabilities and autistic people with an introduction to research, information on how to become involved in research from a Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) perspective and how that differs from participation. It will help understanding about what good practice is, and how to break down barriers with people with learning disabilities and autistic people.

Funding from the REN programme is helping to ensure that the work is co-developed, as well as reasonable adjustments are met for people involved in developing this work. Through this work, stronger and more meaningful working partnerships have been created with people with learning disabilities and/or autism wanting to become involved in research.

“People with learning disabilities are often unfairly excluded from health research. Yet, they experience some of the greatest health inequities. There are many people with learning disabilities and community organisations that want to be involved, to tell us where the gaps are, and have their voices shape research. It’s been a privilege to be supported by REN to develop meaningful relationships, knowledge about research, and the research champion role with this incredible group of people with Lived Experience.”

Louise Gorman, Public and Community Involvement Manager, NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration