Partnering with Communities for Inclusive Research
Connecting Researchers with Local Communities in Hertfordshire & West Essex
The Research Engagement Network (REN) is here to help you reach diverse communities, strengthen research participation, and ensure your studies reflect the real-world needs of local people.
We know that researchers are passionate about delivering high-quality research, but engagement can sometimes feel challenging. That’s where we come in.
Our programme supports researchers in reaching seldom-heard communities, improving accessibility, and increasing trust in research. We work alongside researchers to ensure studies are inclusive, well-supported, and embedded within local communities.
Our Services
Access to Community Spaces
Need a venue for patient and public engagement? We can help researchers book community spaces.
Community Research Champions
Work with trained volunteers who help bridge the gap between research and the public, building trust and engagement.
Targeted Promotion
We help promote research studies through trusted local networks, ensuring studies reach a wider and more diverse audience.
Cultural and Inclusive Research Training
We support researchers in understanding barriers to participation and best practices for inclusivity.
Compensation for Public Involvement
Funding is available to support participation and remove barriers for underrepresented groups.
Translation Services
We can help translate research materials into widely spoken languages, including Easy Read and British Sign Language.
Events & Engagement Opportunities
We organise research engagement events where researchers can meet local people, share insights, and connect with potential participants.
Why Work With Us?
- Engage with underrepresented communities that are often excluded from research.
- Build meaningful relationships with local people through trusted intermediaries.
- Many funders now require robust engagement strategies. We provide the expertise to help you demonstrate impact and inclusivity.
- Ensure your study addresses real community needs by incorporating public voices early in the process.
- We don’t just give advice; we actively help you connect with communities and ensure your research is accessible.
How to get involved
Contact Us
If you’re planning a research project and want support, get in touch at communityresearch@communities1st.org.uk or call 01727 649900.
Work With Our Community Research Champions
Learn how to co-design studies with local voices at the heart.
Promote Your Study
Let us help you reach diverse communities through trusted local networks.
Collaborate with the Research Engagement Network
Click the button below to explore opportunities to collaborate with the Research Engagement Network.
Together, we can make research more inclusive, impactful, and meaningful! Join us in breaking down barriers and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to be part of research.