New partnership takes health and care research into the heart of Runcorn communities
A new Runcorn programme will make it easier for local people to learn about health and care research, find opportunities to participate and have a greater say in how research is discussed and delivered.
Over the next 12 months, residents will be invited to take part in accessible community sessions and roadshows where they can ask questions, explore common myths and misconceptions, and learn more about how health and care research works.
The programme will also listen to residents to better understand the practical, social and personal barriers that can prevent people from becoming involved. These insights will help partners make future information and opportunities clearer, more inclusive and more relevant to local communities.
The programme is being delivered through a partnership between Wellbeing Enterprises CIC, Runcorn Primary Care Network and North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust. It is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research North West Regional Research Delivery Network (NIHR North West RRDN).
It builds upon the work of the Halton Care and Research Alliance, which brings together community, primary care and NHS partners to strengthen local involvement in health and care research.
Mark Swift, Founder and Chief Executive of Wellbeing Enterprises CIC, said:
“We’re delighted to be working with our partners to bring health and care research closer to communities across Runcorn. By building on the trusted relationships that already exist locally, we can create welcoming opportunities for residents to ask questions, share their views and learn more about how they can become involved.
“This is an exciting opportunity to bring communities, primary care, the voluntary sector and NHS research teams together, ensuring that local voices and experiences help shape how research is discussed and delivered.”
Many people have limited awareness of health and care research or may not see it as something that is accessible, relevant or open to them. Some may be unsure about what participation involves, while others can face practical barriers that make it more difficult to take part.
The programme will create welcoming opportunities for residents to ask questions, share their views and discuss any concerns they may have.
Dr Ria Moss, GP Partner at Castlefields Health Centre, said:
“Research plays an important role in improving the care and treatment people receive, but we know that not everyone has the same opportunity to learn about it or become involved.
“By listening to local residents, answering questions and understanding the barriers people face, we can help make research more accessible to communities across Runcorn.”
A network of Health and Care Research Champions will also be established. Community members, volunteers and staff will receive free training, practical resources and ongoing support to help make research more visible and direct residents towards trusted information and suitable opportunities.
The programme will strengthen connections between local communities, GP practices, voluntary and community organisations, and NHS research teams. Residents will be introduced to trusted sources of information and relevant opportunities to participate in health and care research.
North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust’s Pathway to Research will provide another way for people to register their interest in hearing about suitable future studies. People can register whether they are healthy, take medication or live with one or more health conditions.
Lisa Cheng, Deputy Associate Director of Research, Development and Innovation at North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“Health and care research must reflect the diversity, experiences and priorities of the communities it is intended to benefit.
“By working together and listening directly to residents, we can better understand what prevents people from becoming involved, improve how opportunities are communicated and help more local people feel confident engaging with research.”
The views and experiences shared by residents will help shape how research opportunities are explained and promoted in the future, supporting a more inclusive and sustainable approach across Runcorn.
ENDS
Notes to editors
About the programme
This 12-month programme aims to improve awareness and understanding of health and care research, make opportunities easier to access and better understand the barriers that can prevent people from becoming involved.
It will include community engagement sessions and roadshows, accessible information and resources, opportunities for residents to share their views, and the development of a network of Health and Care Research Champions.
The programme is being delivered through a partnership between Wellbeing Enterprises CIC, Runcorn Primary Care Network and North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust, with funding from the NIHR North West Regional Research Delivery Network.
It builds upon the work of the Halton Care and Research Alliance and brings together the trusted relationships and local knowledge of the voluntary and community sector with primary care and NHS research expertise.
About Wellbeing Enterprises CIC
Wellbeing Enterprises CIC is a Halton-based social enterprise that works with individuals, communities and partner organisations to improve health and wellbeing. Its work includes community-based services, training, social innovation and approaches that build upon the strengths, relationships and resources within local communities.
About the NIHR
The National Institute for Health and Care Research funds, enables and delivers health and social care research that improves people’s health and wellbeing and promotes economic growth.
Media enquiries
James Smith
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01928 589 799
Website: www.wellbeingenterprises.org.uk
