What public involvement means
Learn where public contributors can have an influence and why this work is valuable to research teams and communities.
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A practical introduction
Find out more about public involvement
Explore the foundations of public involvement in research: what it means, how people can contribute and how research teams can create meaningful opportunities.
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Research is stronger when it is informed by lived experience
Public involvement brings the insights, priorities and practical knowledge of people with relevant experience into research decisions.
It is distinct from being a research participant. People involved in research may help set priorities, improve plans and materials, consider how a project is run, or help share learning in ways that are useful to others.
This introduction can help you identify the route that best matches your role and the questions you want to explore.
Choose a route
Guidance for your next step
Whether you are considering a role in research or planning involvement as part of a project, begin with the information most relevant to you.
How to involve people
Plan inclusive, well-supported involvement that is clear about purpose, roles, information and feedback.
Plan involvement →How to get involved
Consider possible roles, the questions to ask before joining a project and ways to share your experience constructively.
Find your starting point →Explore further
Topics to build on
User controlled research
Explore approaches where people with direct experience play a leading role in setting, directing and managing research.
Read about user controlled researchChildren and young people
Consider age-appropriate ways to support children and young people to contribute to research that affects their lives.
Explore involving children and young peopleLearning and development
Find material to help people build confidence, understanding and practical skills for involvement.
Explore learning and developmentJargon buster
Research terms can make it harder to contribute. Use plain explanations as a starting point for clearer conversations.
Browse the jargon busterWhat good involvement includes
From a clear invitation to visible learning
Effective involvement takes preparation, openness and follow-through.
Be clear about purpose
Explain the question, the choices that are still open and the contribution that is being sought.
Make access possible
Share information in useful formats and identify practical support before people are asked to contribute.
Work respectfully
Allow time for discussion, value different forms of knowledge and avoid unnecessary technical language.
Explain the difference made
Record what was learned, what changed and why a suggestion may not have been taken forward.
Common questions
Starting with public involvement
Do I need research experience to get involved?
No. Lived experience, practical knowledge and a willingness to discuss a research topic can all be valuable. The role should be explained clearly, alongside any support available.
Can public contributors influence research decisions?
They can influence decisions when teams identify meaningful opportunities early and are transparent about what is open to change. Teams should explain the scope of the role from the outset.
What questions should I ask before agreeing to a role?
Ask about the purpose of the work, what you will be asked to do, the time involved, who you will work with, what information will be provided and how feedback will be shared.
How can researchers make information easier to use?
Use plain language, explain necessary terms, provide context and allow enough time for people to read, reflect and ask questions. The jargon buster can help with unfamiliar terms.
Where can I find more detailed guidance?
Explore the resource centre for practical materials, or visit the frequently asked questions page for further answers.
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