Choose support that fits the situation
There is no single model for supporting public involvement. A useful approach takes account of the project, the people involved and the type of help that is needed.
Support can be offered by a public involvement lead within an organisation, a peer support worker, a research lead or committee chair, a peer with relevant experience, or an appropriately qualified wellbeing professional. Different people may be well placed to offer different kinds of support.
For example, a research lead or senior manager may help with supervision, project planning and practical decisions. A peer or wellbeing professional may be better placed to offer space for reflection, confidence-building or personal support. Be clear about what each role can provide and where further help may be needed.
Approaches to consider
- Mentoring can pair a newer contributor with someone who has relevant experience and can help them settle into a role.
- Coaching can help people identify goals, build confidence and reflect on how they want to contribute.
- Group meetings, shared learning sessions and support groups can create space for people to compare experiences and learn together.
- Peer support roles can provide practical insight from someone familiar with public involvement or a shared experience.
- Remote support, including telephone or email contact, can be useful where people need flexibility or cannot attend in person.
The most suitable approach depends on scale and context. An organisation supporting several teams may need a coordinated offer, while a small research group may benefit from regular contact and a named person who can respond to questions.
Peer support
Peer support can help people feel more confident in their role, share practical strategies and learn from one another. It is based on a relationship of mutual respect between people with a relevant shared experience, whether that is involvement in research, a health condition, disability or another aspect of lived experience.
It may happen one-to-one or in a group. It can also develop informally when teams make time and conditions for people to connect safely and on equal terms.
Creating the conditions for peer support
- Allow time before or after meetings for informal conversation and shared reflection.
- Invite group members to discuss their own experience, confidence and learning needs if they wish to do so.
- Consider a peer mentoring arrangement between experienced contributors and people who are new to a panel or group.
- Offer agreed ways for people to stay in contact between meetings, while respecting privacy and communication preferences.