Did you know your organisation can help shape health and social care research? 

At CAN, we are excited to invite voluntary and community sector groups in Dorset to take part in our free webinars and workshops. These events will help your organisation learn how to get involved in research, access funding, and create real change for the communities you support. 

These sessions are part of the ‘I am more than…’ Project, which focuses on making research fairer and more inclusive. 

 “The project has been a trail blazer in how to involve communities in research.  For a long time our customers felt that “helicopter research” disempowered their stories and lives. This addresses the power balance and puts our customers at the centre of system change”

– Mike Graham, CEO, Lantern Trust 

Why these events matter 

In the past, not everyone’s voice has been heard in research – especially people who are often left out, like those experiencing homelessness. Bels Wathen from The HealthBus said, “I was worried about my privilege because I do not have lived experience of homelessness. However, I was reassured that it is about building relationships and using compassion to break down barriers.”

Now, we want to help VCS groups like yours, take part. You know your communities best, and your voice is important to shaping the future of health and social care. ‘I am more than…’ shows that listening to real stories and experiences improves research. 

“These events will help VCS groups make a real impact by learning how to get involved and access funding. Research is about listening and trust, and we want everyone to have a say.”

– Paul Norton, Research Engagement Lead, CAN 

What to expect 

Webinars (1-hour, standalone sessions): 

• 22nd January: Introduction to research and why it matters for VCS groups. 

• 29th January: What is the Inclusive Research Agenda? 

• 5th February: Research funding opportunities for VCS groups. 

These sessions are short, free, and packed with practical tools to help you get involved. 

Why join us? 

• Advocate for the causes you care about. 

• Gain practical tools to access funding and grow your impact. 

• Build connections with others who care about making research fairer and more inclusive. 

Spaces are limited – Book your place now. 

Let’s work together to make every voice heard and every community matter.