People with lived experience are often left out of conversations and decisions that impact their lives. When we include these voices, research becomes more relevant, empathetic, and effective in driving meaningful change. 

We’re thrilled to join the ‘I Am More Than…’ partnership as it enters its third phase, following a successful first year. Funded by the Clinical Research Network CRN Wessex (now the South-Central Regional Research Delivery Network) this project enables stakeholders to develop and embed a co-designed and inclusive approach to involving people with lived experience in research.

Phase one of the “I am more than’ project started in October 2023 as part of The Research Engagement Network Programme Cohort 2 (REN2), an initiative by NHS England who provided funding to Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) across the country to bring the voice of people and communities into health and care research. 

The project is rooted in the belief that people are more than their circumstances—they have unique stories, strengths, and insights. By amplifying these voices, we aim to make research more accessible and impactful, especially for communities whose perspectives have historically been under-represented. 

What’s happened so far 

Bournemouth University collaborated with The HealthBus and The Lantern Trust to create safe spaces for people with lived experience of homelessness to share their stories. Through these conversations, the project developed a foundation for research that truly reflects the needs of those directly affected. This collaborative approach is building a model for inclusive research and training that could benefit many other groups in the future. 

We’re focusing on expanding the benefits for charities and community groups. This includes supporting both the people they serve and the organisations themselves by: 

Hosting Webinars 

We’ll partner with Bournemouth University to offer a series of webinars designed to make research more accessible and relevant for charities and community groups. Topics include: 

• The basics of research and why it matters 

• The role of voluntary and community sectors (VCS) in research 

• How your organisation can participate in and benefit from research 

• What support is needed to get involved 

• Developing Training Resources 

Building on insights from the webinars, we’ll co-create a training package with our partners, equipping charities, and community groups to engage effectively in research and preparing them for future opportunities. 

Building a Supportive Network 

A quarterly network for VCS groups and research partners to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. This network will be supported by a Virtual Hub— an accessible online space where community groups can exchange tips, challenges, and opportunities in real-time. 

Celebrating Success 

Finally, we aim to celebrate and highlight the positive impacts of the partnership, showcasing how charities and community groups can play active roles in research that advances their missions and strengthens their impact. 

By engaging in ‘I Am More Than…,’ charities and community groups have the opportunity to shape research that directly benefits their communities. Together, we’re paving the way for more inclusive, informed, and impactful research. 

For more information or to get involved, contact paul.norton@can100.org

Supported by the Centre for Seldom Heard Voices – bringing together academics from across Social Sciences and Social Work to produce high-quality research and Bournemouth University Public Involvement in Education & Research.